Task force created to probe suspected scam hub in Cebu City

Local

CEBU CITY has launched a multi-agency task force to investigate a suspected online scam operation after a viral exposé triggered public alarm and calls for accountability.

Outgoing Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia on Thursday, May 22, announced the creation of a special task force to investigate a suspected scam hub operating in the city, following a viral video exposé published by an anonymous vlogger known only as “MRWN.”

The exposé, released on May 19, featured behind-the-scenes footage that allegedly showed an organized online fraud operation housed in what appeared to be an office facility in Cebu City.

The video has since circulated widely on social media, prompting calls for a formal investigation.

Garcia said the city government is taking the exposé seriously and has formed a task force composed of the Business Permit and Licensing Office, Philippine National Police, National Bureau of Investigation, Department of Information and Communications Technology, and the Office of the City Administrator.

“The city will not tolerate any illegal operation that tarnishes Cebu’s reputation, especially in the BPO sector. We are taking immediate steps to validate and address these allegations,” Garcia said.

He also made a direct appeal to call center agents potentially involved in the alleged operation, particularly those who may have knowledge of the scam but are hesitant to come forward.

“Dapat dili sila mahadlok. We will protect them. First and foremost, they are protected by the law, especially if they become witnesses,” he said.

He stressed that agents who witnessed or unknowingly participated in the operation could play a critical role in uncovering the full scale of the alleged scam.

“Dapat mugawas na gyud ni sila, because firsthand, kita man gud sila unsay nahitabo. More likely, they can pinpoint or identify other similar operations. They are just in a small community,” he said.

Garcia assured the public that legal protections will apply to those who cooperate, but clarified that due process will be followed for individuals found to be knowingly involved in the scam.

“Everything will be under monitoring and scrutiny. If we have to file cases, then we will file cases. But as I said, those who come out in the open are protected by law, especially if they serve as witnesses,” he said.

The task force is now coordinating efforts to validate the video’s claims, trace the origins of the suspected operation, and identify the individuals or entities responsible.

Garcia emphasized that the integrity of the city’s legitimate business process outsourcing (BPO) industry is at stake.

“Kining mga illegal activities, mao ni makapadaot sa mga call centers nga nag tinarong. Mao ning makapadaot sa atong siyudad sa Sugbo—we pride ourselves as the center for BPO—mao ning makaguba sa atong reputasyon,” he said.

As the task force begins its investigation, Garcia appealed to the public for cooperation and vigilance.

He urged citizens to report any suspicious activities related to unregistered or suspicious call center operations.(TGP)