Senator Pushes for Scam Prevention Center
Senator Mark Villar has introduced a bill to create the Philippines’ first Scam Prevention Center. As part of his top 10 priority bills in the 20th Congress, this center aims to serve as a one-stop hub for all scam-related complaints, inquiries, and concerns. The establishment of this center reflects the pressing need to address the growing threats posed by scammers in an increasingly digital world.
With the rapid digitalization transforming daily life, scammers and hackers constantly develop new, sophisticated schemes. “In this time when almost everything is digital, we also see that scammers continue to create new ways to deceive people,” the Senator said in Filipino.
Building on Previous Anti-Scam Efforts
Since the 19th Congress, Villar has championed legislation to combat scams, notably the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA). He believes that protective measures must be enhanced to ensure they are accessible and responsive to all Filipinos nationwide. “We were successful in the passage of the AFASA in the 19th Congress, and through this bill, we will continue to fight against scammers in order to protect Filipinos from further financial losses,” Villar added.
Goals and Structure of the Scam Prevention Center
The proposed Philippine Scam Prevention Center (PSPC) will operate under the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC). It plans to work closely with key agencies such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), National Privacy Commission (NPC), and several financial and telecommunications firms.
As the central government body leading efforts against digital fraud and online scams, the PSPC aims to deliver swift and effective responses. It will establish regional and local offices to promptly handle cases nationwide, supporting victims in filing complaints against violators of the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act and the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
Protecting Filipinos Amid Digital Growth
Senator Villar is committed to fostering a secure digital economy and e-commerce environment. “By establishing an integrated center that will cater to every Filipino victimized by scammers and hackers, the PSPC bill will bolster our goal of building our digital economy while protecting our kababayans’ hard-earned money and savings. I hope that this bill will be realized in the 20th Congress,” he emphasized.
As scammers continue to evolve alongside technology, the creation of the Scam Prevention Center represents a vital step to safeguard Filipinos’ financial security. This initiative highlights the government’s dedication to protecting citizens in the face of emerging cyber threats.
For more news and updates on scam prevention center, visit Filipinokami.com.