Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniform Service (CHAMPUS)

CIRCULAR LETTER 15 May 2002

TO:    ALL BANKS

For your information and guidance, attached is a copy of the letter of Citibank, N.A., calling the attention of all concerned about the rising incidence of fraudulent endorsements of Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniform Service (CHAMPUS) checks issued by Citibank, N.A., New York and drawn against Citibank N.A., Manila. The checks were apparently stolen and the perpetrators used fictitious identification papers, forged the payees endorsements and deposited said checks with various commercial banks, thrift banks and rural banks for clearing purposes. Banks should, therefore, be extra cautious in the negotiation of such CHAMPUS checks.

ALBERTO V. REYES Deputy Governor