National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) director Jaime Santiago disclosed on Monday that the agency’s cybercrime and technical intelligence capabilities have been strengthened with the addition of 44 new agents, primarily lawyers and information technology (IT) experts.

“Our cybercrime agents, technical intelligence agents and forensic examiners have increased in number,” Santiago said.

The new agents will be distributed across various units, including key divisions of the NBI.

Santiago stressedthe importance of having IT experts within the bureau’s ranks.

“Cybercrime is a growing trend worldwide, not just in the Philippines. That’s why we have to work hard, make advancements, and stay one step ahead of cybercrime violators,” Santiago said.

He cited ongoing investigations into cybercrimes, including the spread of fake news by vloggers, conducted in collaboration with other government agencies.