E-wallet operator GCash has advised the general public against illegal raffle promotions that sell online tickets for a chance to win cash prizes and automobiles.
The warning comes with a reminder to users that all such activities, including those online, should have a license to operate issued by the Philippine Amusement Gaming Corporation (Pagcor).
GCash cited an incident involving the social media page “Tipsy D Garage” which, according to Pagcor, was operating illegally, prompting an investigation and operation by the National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP ACG).
The PNP ACG, aided by GCash, implemented a warrant to search, seize, and examine computer data (WSSECD) protocol, which resulted in the arrest of the suspects and confiscation of computers and mobile phones used in their operation.
Six suspects were later arrested and charged with the violation of Presidential Decree No. 1602 (illegal gambling).
The suspects were identified as Mark Kevin Borbon Andrade, 35; Cedric Oneal Obordo, 27; Adrian Gregorio Diaz, 29; Jerele Bautista Javier, 34; Jedric Ambrocio Siron, 27; and another accused who was granted probation.
“Let us continue to fight scammers, fraudsters, and cybercrime by being aware and properly informed about their mode of operations. This can make everyone a step ahead of these perpetrators,” said GCash vice president and head of corporate communications Gilda Maquilan.
In addition, GCash urged its users to exercise extra caution when transacting on the platform, never to reveal their MPIN or OTP, and to refrain from clicking on links that lead to external websites or senders they are unfamiliar with.
UPDATE:
A regional trial court in Bataan has terminated the criminal case against one of the accused after he completed his probation.
In an order dated November 12, 2024 issued by the Regional Trial Court of Bataan in Balanga City, presiding judge Antonio Ray S. Ortiguera approved the final report of the Probation and Parole Officer and directed the discharge of the accused.
The case, docketed as Criminal Case No. 23938, involved a violation of Presidential Decree 1602 as amended by Republic Act 9287, in relation to Republic Act 10175.
“With the final discharge, the instant case is terminated,” the court said, adding that the accused’s criminal liability for the offense was extinguished following the completion of probation, pursuant to Section 3 of Republic Act 10707.
