Overview
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has arrested a woman in Mandaluyong City on allegations that she victimized distressed Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who were seeking government assistance. The operation, which culminated in an entrapment on October 10, led to charges of estafa filed with the Mandaluyong City Prosecutor’s Office.
The Suspects and the Arrest
The NBI identified the suspect as Mary Jocelyn V. Balubayan. She was taken into custody during an entrapment operation in Mandaluyong and subsequently charged under Article 315 of the Revised Penal Code (RPC) for estafa. The bureau indicated that Balubayan’s alleged actions were carried out in coordination with another individual named Nialmo A. Lovina, who remains a subject of ongoing investigation.
The alleged modus operandi
According to the NBI, the case originated from information received by the Department of Migrant Workers-Operation and Surveillance Division (DMW-OSD). The bureau alleges that Balubayan and Lovina targeted OFWs who were distressed and eligible to claim assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the DMW. The NBI also noted that the suspects engaged in ambulant chasing, a practice described as roaming or soliciting in the hope of obtaining favorable responses from distressed workers at the DMW office.
How the scheme allegedly worked
Complainants reportedly were enticed to obtain a certificate of indigency, purportedly issued by Barangay Commonwealth in Quezon City. Balubayan and Lovina allegedly demanded illicit payments—P1,000 from the P5,000 DSWD cash assistance and 15 percent of a P50,000 DMW assistance—under the pretext of expediting or guaranteeing the processing of these benefits.
The NBI stated that the barangay Certificates of Indigency issued in these cases were found to be fraudulent, with the Barangay Commonwealth issuing confirmations that the certificates given to the victims were spurious.
Impact on the victims
Distressed OFWs often rely on government aid programs during times of unemployment or displacement. When individuals exploit their vulnerability, they undermine confidence in essential social services and deny rightful support to those in genuine need. The NBI emphasized that the alleged acts not only defraud the government but also erode the trust OFWs place in public assistance programs meant to provide relief during challenging periods.
Legal process and what’s next
Balubayan has been charged with estafa under the RPC, reflecting the gravity of the alleged deceit involving financial misrepresentation toward vulnerable workers. The Mandaluyong City Prosecutor’s Office will determine whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial. Lovina’s status remains under investigation, with authorities continuing to examine other potential victims and witnesses connected to the scheme.
The broader context
Criminal activity targeting OFWs has been a persistent concern in the Philippines. Law enforcement agencies periodically warn about intermediaries who promise expedited aid or certificates of indigency in exchange for fees. The NBI’s actions in Mandaluyong underscore ongoing efforts to protect overseas workers and ensure the integrity of government assistance programs. Public accountability and timely prosecution are critical to deterring similar schemes in the future.
What should OFWs do?
OFWs and their families are advised to verify all information about social protection programs through official channels such as the DSWD and the DMW, and to report any suspicious solicitations to the NBI or the police. Keeping a record of communications, requests for fees, and copies of any certificates can greatly assist investigators should a case arise.
Conclusion
The arrest of Balubayan marks another reminder of the delicate balance between helping address the needs of distressed OFWs and safeguarding the integrity of government assistance. As the case proceeds, authorities hope to bring clarity to the alleged misrepresentation and ensure that aid remains accessible to those who truly deserve it.
