Philippine National Police (PNP) acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., on Sunday, Jan. 4, said they are intensifying efforts to track down scammers impersonating high-ranking officials, including himself.
The hunt was launched after the Bicol Region police warned internet users about persons introducing themselves as top government officials, including Interior and Local Government Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla, Region 5 police director Brig. Gen. Erosito Miranda, Nartatez, and other senior PNP officials.
The PNP warned that the scammers try to solicit money, gift cards, or personal information from their victims.
“We urge the public to stay vigilant and never give out money or personal information to anyone claiming to be a government official,” Nartatez said.
The police advised the public to never provide money or sensitive details, verify identities through official channels, check account authenticity, and report suspicious activities immediately.
“Always verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a government official. Don’t immediately believe a call or text (message) especially if it asks for money or personal information. If in doubt, immediately call the local police station or the official PNP hotline to confirm. Never provide bank details, passwords, or any personal documents to unknown persons,” Nartatez said.
The alert followed a similar case in Pampanga where two impersonators of Philippine Army chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido were arrested.
Nartatez emphasized the importance of safeguarding public trust, adding that the PNP will take legal action against anyone caught impersonating government officials.
“We are prepared to file charges and pursue legal action against anyone caught impersonating government officials. Public cooperation is key to stopping these scams,” he noted.
