Suspect in P100 million scam using lawmakers falls

MANILA, Philippines — A woman who allegedly posed as a staff of congressmen in duping victims of a P100-million investment scam was arrested by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) last Friday.

NBI agents conducted an entrapment operation and arrested Cristine Lagrisola, who was charged with estafa and violation of Batas Pambansa 22 or the anti-bouncing checks law before the city prosecutor’s office.

The complaint filed by a victim before the NBI showed that Lagrisola solicited investments by claiming to be a staff of congressmen and other government officials, including Deputy Speaker Mikee Romero.

It was learned that the suspect has been using a picture of herself with Romero to support her claim of affiliation with the 1-Pacman congressman.

Upon receiving the complaint, NBI director Eric Distor immediately formed a special team to handle the case, which led to the arrest of the suspect.

Romero’s office commended the NBI for its swift action.

“The arrest of Cristine Lagrisola is a subtantial step towards justice as it effectively puts a halt to her illegal activities and prevents her from further pursuing other victims,” he said in a statement.

Romero reminded the public to be wary of investment scams using names of congressmen and public officials. He urged investors to be careful not to fall prey to scammers and immediately report unscrupulous individuals to authorities.

“It is regrettable that scammers and con artists still exist and even dare to victimize unsuspecting investors at these trying times of pandemic when most people are struggling financially,” he said.

The billionaire lawmaker said that “before investing our hard-earned money, we should always verify information being offered to us to avoid being victimized by scams.”