HB 10600 seeks to protect integrity of electronic transactions of elderly, PWDs
HOUSE Bill 10600 proposes penalties include imprisonment ranging from three months to six years or more, depending on the amount taken from the senior or PWD, especially if their savings or pensions are exhausted due to the scam by individuals or syndicates.
The title of the measure is An Act protecting the integrity of the electronic transactions of senior citizens and persons with disability (PWDs), defining for the purpose of crime of internet and telecommunications phishing and fraudulent practices against senior citizens and PWDs and providing penalties therefor.
Other authors include ACT-CIS Reps. Edvic Yap and Jocelyn Tulfo, Benguet Rep. Eric Yap, and Quezon City Rep. Ralph Wendel Tulfo.
“Ilang reklamo na kasi ang natatanggap ng aking tanggapan ukol dito sa panggogoyo sa mga senior citizens ng ilang walang pusong indibidwal,” the House Deputy Majority leader said.
“Sa kanilang pension o konting ipon lang umaasa ang mga senior tapos gagatasan o nanakawin pa ng mga manggagantso,” he added.
By imposing stringent penalties, the bill seeks to deter potential offenders and underscore the seriousness of these crimes.
The implementation of this bill would not only safeguard the financial assets of senior citizens and PWDs but also restore their confidence in using digital platforms for communication and transactions,”
It states that any person found guilty of committing the act of phishing, internet fraud, or telecommunications fraud where the offended party is a senior citizen or PWD at the time of the commission shall be punished by imprisonment of three years and one day to six years and a fine of at least P500,000 as determined by the regular courts, or the amount equivalent to the total damage incurred to the offended party, whichever is higher.
“Sinama na rin namin yung mga PWD na kapag ginoyo mo ay kulong ang aabutin mo. Kahit piso pa yan, makukulong ka pag-iniscam mo yung kaawa-awang senior o PWD, dahil wala kang puso,” Tulfo added.
The lawmaker underscored the need to protect the elders and PWDs who are very vulnerable groups.
“We need to protect our elders and PWDs sa panahon ngayong usong-uso ang mga scam,” the legislator stated.
