The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) wishes to warn overseas Filipino workers against engaging in business with fake franchisors.

This warning is issued in view of numerous complaints received by the DTI of OFWs who were victimized by franchising scams.

In particular, OFWs are warned of the franchising scam activities of the following companies:

1. Fran.com Franchise Marketing Consultancy, Inc.

2. Hamoraon Business Specialist Inc.

3. Michelle Ann Pacubas-Chan (single proprietor)

OFWs who wish to engage in the franchising business are encouraged to verify the legitimacy of their prospective franchisors by contacting the DTI Direct Hotline (63-2) 751 3330, or any member of the Working Committee on Franchising Scams listed below:

• Philippine Franchising Association (PFA)

  Contact person: Ms. Elizabeth Pardo Orbeta, President
  Tel 687-0365 to 67, fax 687-0635, email membership@pfa.org.ph

• RK Consultancy or Filipino International Franchising Association (FIFA)

  Contact person: Ms. Margarita Chua Nacua, President
  Tel 912-2946, fax 911-1966, email rk@rkfranchise.com  

• Association of Filipino Franchisers, Inc. (AFFI)

  Contact person: Mr. Rafael G. Canare, Administrator
  Tel. 506-8833, 0917-518-2334, fax 642-1829, email affiphilippines@yahoo.com 

• Food Cart Association of the Philippines (Focaphil)

  Contact person: Mr. Jose Manuel Rosuello, President
  Tel 821-5011, 497-5300, 729-4449, fax 535-4060, 729-4449, Email focaphil@yahoo.com 

• Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)

  Contact person: Atty. Geraldine C. Pama
  Tel 584-5235, fax 584-8709

• Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)

  Contact person: Ms. Teresita Manzala, Director
  Telefax 527-6184, email nrcodole@yahoo.com  

• POEA

  Contact persons: Mr. Melchor B. Dizon, Director IV (Licensing and Regulation Office)
  Atty. Jone B. Fung, Director II (Anti-Illegal Recruitment Branch)
  Tel 722-1189, 722-1144, 722-1155, fax 721-9498, email info@poea.gov.ph