11 March 2014

The Department of Energy (DOE) warns the public and energy stakeholders of unscrupulous individuals posing as Secretary Carlos Jericho L. Petilla and certain DOE employees soliciting money from energy firms and government offices to fund team building and certain occasions, especially this upcoming summer season.

Recently, the mobile number 0915-137-0801 has been used for this unlawful purpose. A certain Mr. Roberto Mercadel has been unrightfully claiming himself as the Chief-of-Staff at the DOE-Office of the Secretary (OSEC).

The DOE reiterates it adherence to the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees (Republic Act 6713) which prohibits officials and employees from soliciting money.

With these occurrences, we encourage everyone to report any form of communication from these individuals, and verify the authenticity of these messages with the DOE through the OSEC’s official numbers: 840-2134 and 840-2008.