Four men arrested with fake peso bills

CEBU, Philippines - Four men were arrested after they were caught in possession of fake bills worth P50,000 in Barangay Bagatayam, Sogod town, Cebu, yesterday.

Police identified the suspects as Roberto Goc-ong Hatamosa, Dennis Gatchalian Dolino, Ian Roque Mendoza and Nadki Miles Solon.

People victimized by the suspects called the police to report that the suspects were seen in Barangay Kagoyon, Borbon town. 

Sogod policemen responded to the report and eventually caught up with the suspects who were riding a taxi around 10 a.m.

Seized from the suspects were 24 fake P1,000 bills and 52 fake P500 bills.

Cebu Provincial Police Office director Senior Supt. Patrocinio Comendador Jr. said that the suspects buy cheap items but pay with the big bills to maximize their profit.

Comendador said that counterfeit money could have also been intended for vote-buying ahead of the 2013 elections.

“Wa na namo gi-disregard, posible lang, pero sa akong assessment adto ni i-disposed sa barangay fiesta,” Comendador said.

Comendador said that Dolino disclosed that their source is somebody from Junquera Ext. in Cebu City but refused to reveal more information. The fake P1,000 bills reportedly cost P150 each while the P500 bills are priced at P50 each.

He also encouraged the public to be vigilant always when it comes to dealing with money.

 “If wala sila kaila sa ilang gipalitan o di ba kaha sa tao nga ni-offer nila better check or tawag sa police station,” he said.

Comendador also reiterated to always take note of the plate number of the vehicle used by these suspicious, if there is any.

Charges for violation of Article 168 of the Revised Penal Code or illegal possession and use of false treasury and bank notes and other instruments of credit will be filed against the suspects.  (FREEMAN)