PNP cites major gains in fight vs cybercrimes
THE Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group on Tuesday reported notable accomplishments in their crackdown against cyber-criminals last week amid their commitment to ensure public safety in the digital space.
From April 11 to 17, the PNP-ACG arrested 45 persons, 32 of them through entrapment operations, while 13 were the subject of warrants of arrest for cybercrimes.
Significantly, eight minors and victims were also rescued as a result of intensified operations targeting online exploitation and abuse, the PNP-ACG headed by Brigadier General Bernard R. Yang, said.
The group also filed 26 cases, consisting of eight through regular filing and 18 through inquest proceedings.
These efforts were reinforced by the implementation of 13 cyber warrants, all of which were warrants to disclose computer data, underscoring the ACG’s commitment to using legal tools to fight digital crimes.
Further highlighting their aggressive stance against cyber threats, the unit conducted 313 cyber patrolling operations and carried out 13 digital forensic examinations during the same period.
PNP chief, General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil lauded the consistent and high-impact performance of the ACG, emphasizing the importance of public trust and law enforcement’s evolving role in cyberspace.
“Cybercrime poses a growing threat to our citizens, especially the vulnerable. These accomplishments show that the PNP is working with determination and precision to protect our people online.
As the President emphasized, the trust of the public must be earned—these operations are a clear reflection of that trust being upheld in action,” the top cop said.
As the summer season peaks and more Filipinos plan vacations and trips, the PNP also issues a strong warning to the public against online scammers offering tour packages that appear too good to be true.
These fraudulent schemes, often advertised on social media, lure unsuspecting victims with attractive rates and fake promises, only to vanish after receiving payments.
“We urge everyone to verify the legitimacy of travel agencies and booking platforms before making any transactions. To cybercriminals preying on innocent citizens, especially during this peak travel season, be warned: the PNP is actively monitoring, patrolling, and ready to act. There will be no safe space for scammers in the digital world,” Gen. Marbil added.
