The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) has identified over 300 abusive online lending applications operating in the Philippines, many of which have been taken down following complaints from borrowers.
PAOCC Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz said the apps resort to harassment and threats in debt collection, including exposing private data, seizing social media accounts, and intimidating families.
In some cases, lenders allegedly threatened to burn houses, file false police cases, or commit violence if payments were delayed.
“Some of these apps harass borrowers by threatening to expose private information, seize control of their social media accounts, or even use family photos to intimidate them,” Cruz said in a recent media briefing on Thursday.
He recounted reports of lenders threatening to burn houses, file false police cases, or even commit sexual violence if debts were not paid on time.
To combat the problem, the PAOCC recently launched an educational video campaign urging Filipinos to exercise caution before taking out online loans.
“We’re not saying people should never borrow, but they must be careful. Not all lending apps are legitimate,” Cruz said.
The commission acknowledged the issue remains widespread, driven by financial hardship that forces many Filipinos to seek quick loans.
“The problem is talamak (rampant) because these lenders earn big money and many people borrow due to financial need,” Cruz added.
Authorities vowed to continue monitoring abusive platforms, dismantling illegal operations, and raising public awareness to protect consumers.
