25/03/2026
PNP NETS 67 IN ANTI-SCAM OPERATIONS ACROSS PH
The Philippine National Police (PNP), through its Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG), arrested 67 individuals in 60 operations conducted nationwide from January to February 2026 for violations of the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA).
The operations targeted individuals involved in the illegal selling and misuse of financial accounts—such as ATM cards, online banking profiles, and e-wallets—commonly used as “money mules” in scams and other cybercrime activities. These accounts are often used to move illicit funds linked to online fraud, illegal gambling, and phishing schemes.
The intensified campaign is part of the PNP’s Focused Agenda under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, strengthening cybercrime enforcement and protecting the public from evolving digital threats, in support of the national directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to safeguard financial systems and public trust amid global economic uncertainty.
Chief PNP, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., underscored the importance of vigilance and accountability.
“Hindi biro ang epekto ng ganitong uri ng panlilinlang. These are not victimless crimes. We will continue to go after those who exploit others for profit, especially now that people are more vulnerable due to global developments,” he said.
He also reminded the public to remain cautious and responsible in handling their financial accounts.
“Sa ating mga kababayan, huwag basta ipagamit o ipagbili ang inyong bank accounts o e-wallets. Kahit pa mukhang madaling pera, maaari kayong managot sa batas. Stay alert, verify transactions, and report suspicious activities immediately.”
The PNP also warned that syndicates may take advantage of current economic pressures by luring individuals into becoming accomplices through seemingly harmless online offers.
“As situations evolve globally, criminals adapt. But so will we. Hindi kami titigil hangga’t napapanagot ang mga sangkot at napoprotektahan ang publiko,” PGEN Nartatez added.
The PNP assures the public of its continued nationwide operations against cybercriminals, reinforcing its commitment to Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.
(PNP-PIO)
