The Philippine National Police (PNP) is on the lookout for scammers pretending to be high-ranking officials, including Police Chief Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., following reports of online impersonation and attempted fraud.
The Bicol Police Regional Office (PRO-5) issued a public advisory after spotting fake accounts and messages using the names of key officials — like Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, PNP Chief Nartatez, PNP spokesperson PLTGEN Bernard Banac and PRO-5 Regional Director Police Brig. Gen. Erosito Miranda.
According to the PNP, these scammers allegedly reached out to potential victims asking for money, gift cards, or personal information while claiming to represent government officials.
“We urge everyone to stay alert and never give out money or personal details to anyone claiming to be a government official,” Nartatez said.
Police units in the Bicol region have been directed to immediately verify and document reported impersonation attempts, as part of a broader crackdown on fraud involving the misuse of official identities.
The PNP also reminded the public to always verify claims through official channels and to avoid responding to unverified accounts or messages requesting financial help or sensitive information. Suspicious activity can be reported to local police stations or official PNP hotlines.
The alert follows a recent case in Pampanga, where two people were arrested for impersonating Philippine Army chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido.
Nartatez said the PNP is preparing appropriate charges against anyone caught impersonating government officials, and cases will proceed once suspects are identified and arrested.