New Task Force to Probe Suspected Online Scam Operations
CEBU CITY – A newly formed multi-agency task force is set to investigate reports of suspected online scam operations allegedly taking place within the city. The task force includes representatives from the Business Permit and Licensing Office, the Philippine National Police (PNP), the National Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Information and Communications Technology, and the Office of the City Administrator.
Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia announced on May 22 that the special task force was established in response to a viral video exposing what appears to be an organized online fraud operation in Cebu City. The video, released by a vlogger known only as “MRWN” on May 19, showed behind-the-scenes footage of a facility suspected to be a scam hub.
“The city will not tolerate any illegal operation that tarnishes Cebu’s reputation, especially in the BPO sector. We are taking immediate steps to validate and address these allegations,” said Garcia.
Background of the Suspected Scam Operations
The mayor’s statement comes shortly after authorities arrested 17 Taiwanese nationals accused of running a “romance scam” within a local subdivision. This incident heightened awareness about the presence of fraudulent online activities in the city.
Garcia urged call center agents who might be involved or have knowledge about these alleged scam operations to come forward. “They should not be afraid. We will protect them. First and foremost, they are protected by the law, especially if they become witnesses,” he emphasized.
Importance of Cooperation from Call Center Agents
The mayor believes that the cooperation of call center employees is crucial to uncovering the full scope of these illegal activities. “More likely, they can pinpoint or identify other similar operations. They are just in a small community,” he noted.
To aid the investigation, the task force will meticulously verify the claims made in the viral video and work to identify those responsible for operating these scams.
Protecting Cebu’s BPO Industry
Garcia highlighted the importance of safeguarding the city’s business process outsourcing (BPO) sector, which could suffer significant damage if illegal schemes continue unchecked. “These illegal activities will destroy call centers that are operating legally. This can destroy our city. We pride ourselves as the center for BPO,” he said.
He also called on the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to unregistered or dubious call center operations to the authorities immediately.
For more news and updates on suspected online scam operations, visit Filipinokami.com.
