The Philippine National Police Anti-Cyber Crime Group (PNP-ACG) has strengthened its operations against digital financial crimes with the launch of its Cyber Security and Fintech Handbook and the renewal of its partnership with GCash. The event also introduced the Scam Assistance Hub, which aims to facilitate quick and easy filing of scam reports through a simple QR code. These key initiatives aim to complement law enforcement efforts in addressing emerging cyber frauds and scams for more timely and coordinated action.
PNP-ACG and GCash renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MOA), first signed in 2022, which established a framework for cooperation on cybersecurity awareness, capacity-building and information-sharing.
This reaffirms the shared commitment of both institutions to combat financial cyber crimes and strengthen consumer protection amid the continued growth of digital payments.
“Financial technology is evolving, and with it, the methods used by cybercriminals are also evolving,” said Miguel Geronilla, chief information and security officer at GCash. “We at GCash are honored to support the PNP-ACG in enhancing the capabilities of law enforcers through education. By sharing fintech-specific use cases, we aim to help build a more informed response force against digital financial threats.”
Supporting cyber defense frontliners across the country
Cyber Security and Fintech Handbook was created in partnership with GCash to complement the efforts of the Regional Anti-Cyber Crime Unit (RACU) and ACG personnel by outlining key trends and plans in financial cyber crime. Specifically, the handbook includes modules on cybersecurity frameworks, cybercrime law, financial investigations, fintech systems, and cryptocurrency fundamentals, ensuring that officers are better equipped to deal with today's digital crime challenges.
“This initiative is a collective step in our continued effort to protect Filipinos in the digital sphere,” said Brig. General Bernard R. Yang, PNP-ACG director. “Through strategic collaboration and timely learning tools, we are building a law enforcement force that is ready to respond to today's emerging cyber threats.”
Other key officials present at the formal event were PNP-ACG Chief Investigation Officer PCol. Jay D. Guillermo, GCash Chief Information and Security Officer Miguel Geronilla, GCash Public Affairs Manager Mabel M. Niala, and GCash External Affairs Manager Jerome C. Lantin.
Aligning with the PNP's ongoing modernization strategy and the national government's National Cyber Security Plan (NCSP) 2023-2028, the handbook will be delivered to field units through virtual assemblies and video modules. Developed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the NCSP sets the policy direction for a secure and resilient cyberspace in the Philippines.
This joint effort also comes on the heels of the recently released implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA), a new law passed in July 2024 that aims to curb online scams and fraudulent financial activities.
AFASA targets major financial crimes such as social engineering scams and money laundering, while also empowering institutions such as the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to investigate suspicious financial activities. The Cybersecurity and Fintech Handbook seeks to help reinforce these regulatory updates by helping frontline police better understand and enforce the provisions under AFASA.
Reporting scams becomes easier through QR
The event also marked the launch of the Scam Assistance Hub (SAH), a new platform that simplifies scam reporting for the public.
The SAH QR code connects users to the GCash SAH website, a platform where victims of online scams can file police reports, receive assistance, and process documentation for claims under GCash's Express Send Scam Insurance.
This initiative ensures a more coordinated response between the PNP-ACG and GCash in handling fraud complaints and supporting affected users.
Building a future ready police force
These efforts complement the PNP-ACG's broader public education and prevention campaigns designed to build digital literacy among both law enforcement and the general public.
“Technology will continue to evolve, and criminals will continue to adapt,” Brig. General Yang added. “These initiatives will help us in the long journey of strengthening our cyber security. What is important is that we are moving forward together with strong capabilities, clear direction and deep resolve.”
The group reminded that while the SAH QR code is still being prepared for deployment, any incidents of cybercrime and fraud can still be reported through the PNP-ACG's hotline 1326 or GCash's app help center or any official customer support channel. The public can also follow the official social media pages of the PNP-ACG for updates on ongoing efforts to fight cybercrime and promote digital security nationwide.
Spotlight is a sponsored section of Businessworld that allows advertisers to enhance their brands and connect with Businessworld's audience by publishing their stories on the Businessworld web site. For more information send an email to online@bworldonline.com.
Join us on Viber at https://bit.ly/3hv6bLA to get more updates and subscribe to Businessworld's titles and exclusive content via www.bworld-x.com.
