The Department of Agriculture (DA) issued a public notice today, June 12, 2024, disassociating itself from three individuals: Jose Christopher "Joey" Fornier II, Federico Laciste Jr., and Kaydee Marie Velasco.
The brief statement released by the DA emphasizes that these individuals hold no official connection, authorization, or affiliation with the department in any capacity. This move comes amid concerns about potential unauthorized activities involving the aforementioned individuals who might be claiming association with the DA.
"The DA takes this opportunity to inform the public that Messrs. Fornier and Laciste, and Ms. Velasco, are not connected with the department," the statement reads. "Any transactions or representations made by these individuals purporting to act on behalf of the DA will not be recognized or honored."
While the DA refrained from elaborating on the specific reasons for the disassociation, the public notice serves as a strong warning. It underscores the importance of vigilance against potential scams or unauthorized solicitations that might exploit the legitimacy associated with a government agency.
Protecting Public Interests
The DA, a crucial government body responsible for promoting agricultural development and modernization in the Philippines, also plays a vital role in formulating and implementing policies for the country's agriculture and fishery sectors. [https://www.da.gov.ph/] Given its extensive reach and influence, it's understandable why the department would take swift action to prevent any misuse of its name or reputation.
Verifying Information
The DA encourages the public to exercise caution and verify the legitimacy of anyone claiming to represent the department. Individuals can contact the DA directly through their official website [https://www.da.gov.ph/] or established communication channels to ensure authenticity before engaging in any transactions or discussions.
This incident highlights the importance of transparency and accountability within government agencies. By proactively informing the public and taking steps to safeguard its reputation, the DA demonstrates its commitment to protecting the interests of Filipino citizens.