By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Win Gatchalian has issued a warning to the public regarding love scams, noting that with Valentine’s Day approaching, individuals are more likely to turn to online dating.
“Individuals interested in online dating should be vigilant against unscrupulous individuals seeking to exploit them through romance or love scams,” Gatchalian cautioned.
The senator also emphasized that scammers often target both men and women, particularly those experiencing relationship difficulties or emotional vulnerability, including older individuals.
“Huwag tayong basta nagpapabihag sa iba’t ibang uri ng love scam. Kailangan nating maging mapanuri sa ating mga transaksyon lalo na kung may kinalaman ito sa pinagpaguran nating pera,” he stressed.
Gatchalian has also introduced a bill aimed at penalizing individuals who knowingly act as money mules, participate in social engineering schemes, or perpetrate other fraudulent financial activities, including love scams.
Earlier, Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos also issued a similar warning to the public.
Abalos emphasized the importance of providing a platform for discussing such illegal activities to raise public awareness.
(el Amigo/MNM)