Cybercrime tops complaints in Western Visayas – NBI

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

Cybercrimes and issues related to online interactions are the most common complaints from Western Visayas residents, according to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).

Atty. Jeremiah Sargado, acting regional director of NBI-6, said that as of September this year, they received 51 complaints related to the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, or Republic Act (RA) 10175.

“NBI-6 now focuses on cybercrime cases. Although there is a drop in complaints this year in Western Visayas, cybercrime remains the top issue due to the rapid increase in RA 10175-related cases,” Sargado said. In 2023, NBI-6 recorded 129 cybercrime-related complaints.

Sargado expressed concern over the use of social media platforms by criminals to deceive victims.

He also noted a significant decrease in RA 10175 complaints, attributing the drop to the number of cases filed with the National Prosecution Service (NPS) of the Department of Justice and increased public awareness through information campaigns.

“The dissemination of information campaigns regarding these cases has led to positive results, raising public awareness about dealing with or transacting on social media platforms,” he said.

NBI-6 handled over 700 cases involving organized crime, cybercrime, and financial crimes this year, with 64 cases filed with the NPS.

To enhance its capacity to respond to cybercrime, the NBI has constructed a P27.2 million Digital Forensic Center, the first in the region, at Fort San Pedro in Iloilo City.

“The construction of the forensic center will boost NBI-6’s ability to investigate and solve cybercrimes, ensuring a more effective response to digital threats,” Sargado emphasized.

He added that the center will improve national security, enhance capabilities to solve cyber-related cases, and strengthen collaboration with other agencies and international partners in addressing digital crimes in the region.