NBI nabs ‘dead’ woman in 1999 textbook scam

MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has arrested a woman for falsification of public documents and violation of the Anti-Alias Law. 

The arrest came after an investigation revealed Mary Ann Maslog’s use of a false identity during a previous complaint she filed with the bureau.

Last year, Maslog approached the NBI, introducing herself as “Jessica Francisco” and requested an investigation into an alleged fraudulent executive appointment scheme allegedly involving former executive secretary Vic Rodriguez. 

However, the NBI was unable to verify the information she provided, leading to suspicions about her true identity.

Further investigation by the NBI uncovered that Maslog and Francisco were the same person. 

A relative of Maslog also testified, confirming that Francisco was an alias.

In 1999, she faced charges for bribing officials at the Department of Budget and Management in an attempt to secure a P200-million textbook contract. 

Before sentencing could be handed down, Maslog fled the country and went into hiding in the United States. 

According to reports, she and her spouse were involved in several financial crimes in the US. 

Two of her accomplices were convicted by the Sandiganbayan, but Maslog evaded sentencing after her lawyer falsely claimed she had died.

With her recent arrest, authorities are now investigating her possible involvement in illegal Philippine offshore gaming operator firms.