The National Bureau of Investigation is now conducting an investigation of an alleged "benta paluwagan scam" operation in Pasig City.

Victims of a "Ponzi-like" scheme had surfaced against the BNYPal company, owned by Rouhanie Velasco, during the press conference at Pasig City Hall Monday afternoon.

According to NBI-NCR Regional Director Joel Tobera, charges of syndicated estafa and other cases will be filed against the suspect and his cohorts.

"Possible estafa cases will be filed against the subject and his cohorts. We can also manifest a hold departure order at the court as long as there is a warrant of arrest," Tobera said.

"Give us two weeks, we can already file the case. We also urge other victims to come out and file a complaint against the suspects," Tobera added.

For his part, Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto said the city government will help the NBI in the investigation of the Ponzi-like scheme victimizing his fellow Pasigueños.

"Whatever we can help in the case build-up, we will do," Sotto said.

In December 2023, the city government of Pasig had revoked the permit of the BNYPal, located at Barangay Sagad, finding that the company was engaging in the practice of unauthorized lending and investment scheme, far from its declared business of being a wholesaler.

More than P800 million from various investors were reported to be involved in this case.

Sotto earlier reminded city hall employees not to spend all the bonuses and be careful with the scammers.

Initial investigation on the said business has been conducted and it was found out that the company involved in the scam had no permit to conduct financial-, lending-, and investment-related transactions.

"These scammers make people believe that they can earn more through their business, it's a sure business, and they will not do anything aside from providing capital money; and no product/s is/are involved," Sotto said in his speech during the flag-raising ceremony last month.

He reminded everyone to be vigilant, especially when investing in a business.