Baguio Mayoral Candidate Arrested for Fraud
A Baguio City mayoral candidate, who lost in the May 22 elections and is wanted for multiple fraud allegations, was arrested by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in Pampanga. The NBI confirmed that Mark Andrew Bandoc Directo was taken into custody inside the ASEAN Clark Villas at the Clark Freeport Zone in Mabalacat City on June 9.
NBI Director Jaime B. Santiago explained that the arrest came after the Pampanga District Office executed a warrant issued by the Baguio City Regional Trial Court Branch 79 on May 21. The warrant charges Directo with estafa, a form of fraud involving deceit and swindling.
Details of the Fraud Allegations
The NBI stated that Directo faces multiple complaints for estafa through falsification of documents filed by several individuals. According to sources, Directo allegedly misrepresented himself in various transactions by presenting fraudulent papers. He claimed ownership of numerous condominium buildings and villas located both in Clark Freeport Zone and Baguio City.
Moreover, Directo told complainants that the properties’ sale was meant to finance his campaign for the May 2025 elections. He also reportedly entered into agreements with several people, promising them a share of profits from non-existent projects in Clark Freeport Zone and Baguio City. These deals were in exchange for funding his election bid.
Impact on Victims and Legal Proceedings
Numerous individuals from Pampanga and Baguio City fell victim to these alleged scams. They invested in projects that, according to the NBI, were fictitious and designed to deceive and exploit supporters.
Local leaders noted that the arrest marks a significant step towards addressing election-related fraud and protecting voters from such schemes. The NBI continues its investigation to uncover the full scope of Directo’s activities.
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