THE Philippine National Police (PNP) sounded the alarm anew on online investment scams after a group behind an illegal scheme was recently arrested in Santa Rosa City, Laguna.
Operatives of the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG), in coordination with the Securities and Exchange Commission, conducted an entrapment operation that led to the arrest of a suspected group leader and 14 associates. The group allegedly enticed victims to join an unregistered online investment scheme, promising high returns and lifetime benefits in exchange for membership fees.
The PNP noted that while cases of investment scams have shown a decline—from 634 in 2024 to 311 in 2025, and 74 recorded from January to March 2026—the threat remains significant as scammers continue to adapt their tactics online.
PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., emphasized the need for vigilance among the public.
“May mga nanlilinlang pa rin, lalo na online. Paalala namin, huwag basta maniwala sa alok na malaking kita—siguraduhing lehitimo muna,” he said.
He added that the recent arrest should serve as a strong reminder that the PNP is actively pursuing those behind these schemes.
“We will continue to go after these groups. Hindi namin hahayaang maloko ang ating mga kababayan. At the same time, we need the public’s cooperation—be cautious, verify first before investing, and report suspicious activities immediately.”
The PNP reiterated simple reminders: avoid deals that promise guaranteed high returns, check if the company is registered with proper authorities, and never send money to unknown individuals or online platforms without verification.
This intensified campaign is part of the PNP Focused Agenda under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, aligned with the directive of President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr. to strengthen public protection against financial crimes.
The PNP assures the public that operations against cyber-enabled scams will remain aggressive and sustained, as it continues to uphold its commitment to “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.”