NBI Arrests Woman Linked to Victimization of Distressed OFWs
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has arrested a woman in Mandaluyong City for allegedly victimizing distressed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who were seeking government assistance. The operation led to charges of estafa, signaling renewed focus on fraud targeting vulnerable migrant workers.
What Happened
Subject Mary Jocelyn V. Balubayan, along with a companion, was nabbed during an entrapment operation conducted on October 10. Following the arrest, Balubayan was charged before the Mandaluyong City Prosecutor’s Office with estafa under Article 315 of the Revised Penal Code (RPC).
Alleged Modus and Victims
According to the NBI, the case arose from information received by the Department of Migrant Workers-Operation and Surveillance Division (DMW-OSD). Authorities allege that Balubayan and her cohort, identified as Nialmo A. Lovina, preyed on distressed OFWs who were eligible for assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the DMW.
Investigators also said the suspects were involved in ambulant chasing—soliciting or chasing individuals near DMW offices to lure potential victims. Several complainants were allegedly enticed to obtain a certificate of indigency from Balubayan and Lovina, supposedly issued by Barangay Commonwealth in Quezon City.
Financial Demands and Falsified Documents
Records indicate that the suspects demanded 1,000 pesos from the P5,000 DSWD cash assistance and 15 percent from the P50,000 DMW assistance in exchange for the certificate of indigency. The NBI noted that the barangay certificates used to legitimize the claims were later found to be falsified, with Barangay Commonwealth confirming their spurious nature.
Implications for OFWs and Government Agencies
Incidents like this highlight the ongoing vulnerabilities faced by OFWs seeking government support. While welfare programs aim to provide timely aid, criminal elements may exploit distressed workers during periods of financial need. The NBI’s action serves as a warning that those who attempt to profit from the misfortune of OFWs face serious legal consequences.
What Comes Next
Authorities will continue to investigate to determine the full extent of the scheme and identify additional victims. If found guilty, Balubayan and her accomplice Lovina could face penalties under the RPC for estafa, alongside potential additional charges related to falsification of documents and possibly violation of migrant workers protection rules.
Takeaway for OFWs and Agencies
Experts advise eligible OFWs to verify assistance procedures directly with DSWD and the DMW, and to report suspicious activities to authorities promptly. Government agencies emphasized the importance of legitimate, verifiable certificates of indigency and warned against payment schemes tied to relief benefits.
Conclusion
The arrest of Mary Jocelyn V. Balubayan underscores the vigilance of the NBI in safeguarding vulnerable OFWs from fraud and exploitation. As investigations unfold, the case will likely influence future safeguards around the issuance of indigency certificates and the verification processes used by local barangays and national agencies.
