TACLOBAN CITY – In response to the increasing number of cybercrime cases, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in the region will establish a dedicated cybercrime office to address online-related complaints in the region.
Lawyer Emeterio Dongallo, Jr., NBI regional director-8, announced this during the “Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas” forum held on Oct.1, as he disclosed that their office has been receiving numerous cybercrime complaints and needs to expedite the processing of various cases.
Under Republic Act 10175, also known as the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, the NBI and the Philippine National Police (PNP) are mandated to enforce the law, with specialized cybercrime units created to tackle these issues.
While Dongallo did not provide specific figures, he cited online libel, scams, violations of the Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009, identity theft, online threats, unjust vexation, sextortion, and ATM and credit card fraud as the most prevalent types of cybercrime in the region.
The establishment of the cybercrime office forms part of the NBI’s broader modernization efforts, which also include plans for a new office in Tacloban City and the renovation of its current facilities. Upgraded equipment will be introduced to enhance the bureau’s capacity to fight cybercrime.
In addition, the NBI is actively conducting information campaigns on social media, hosting seminars, and providing training on the latest technologies.
They are also closely monitoring social media platforms for early indicators of potential cyber threats.
The Cyber Investigation and Assessment Center, set up under the Cybercrime Prevention Act, will serve as the central hub for investigating cyber-related incidents, including computer intrusions and other threats.
(LIZBETH ANN A.ABELLA)
