PDAO flags PhilDeaf Basketball League misrepresenting Baguio City in unauthorized solications

The Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) under the City Mayor’s Office warns the public against a certain PhilDeaf Basketball League soliciting sponsorships for their supposed sports event in Dagupan and San Jose City. 

In their solicitation letter, the group claimed that they are the official representative of the city government of Baguio using an unofficial seal. 

However, upon verification of records, the PDAO found no name of the listed deaf basketball players led by a certain Ruben G. Paul. 

“Please be informed that as per records of PDAO-City Mayor’s Office, the names herein are not registered persons with disability in the City of Baguio,” the PDAO warned. 

The supposed deaf players listed are: Jess Lasus, Rodel lolong, Arvin Landicho, Rolly Abaraquez, Gerald Arboleda, John Agarao, Antoino Banez Jr., Jelly Cabato San, Renz Miranda, Kenneth Cainto, Mark Piolo and Ruben G. Paul. 

The group is soliciting sponsorship for their uniform, fare, registration fee and meal expenses in the guise of representing the deaf community in Baguio. 

Last month, the PDAO also advised the public to be vigilant against individuals using fake identification cards as PWD to avail discounts after an establishment in the city complained of a group of tourists from Manila City where eight out of the 13 individuals used fake PWD IDs. To verify the authenticity of PWD IDs, Aquino advised individuals and establishments to directly coordinate with the issuing LGUs reflected in the cards. For Baguio City, the telephone number is 442-7228. – JMPS