What to do if someone asks for a bribe

This is general information, not legal advice. Laws and procedures change. For advice about your situation, talk to a lawyer or the Public Attorney's Office.

In the moment

• Stay calm and don't argue if you feel unsafe.
• Politely ask for the official fee and an official receipt.
• Ask for the legal basis of any fee you weren't expecting.
• Ask to speak to a supervisor or the office's public assistance desk.

Afterwards

• Write down what happened as soon as you can: date, time, place, what was said, the person's role or window number, and the amount.
• Keep any receipts, messages or documents. See how to preserve evidence.
• Report it here, and consider filing with an official body.

If you are threatened

Your safety comes first. Contact the police or emergency services. If you are a witness in a serious case, the Witness Protection, Security and Benefit Program (RA 6981) under the Department of Justice may apply.