Two individuals were arrested in Pasig City for allegedly using falsified payment receipts to obtain more than Php 1.4 million worth of products from a businessman, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported.

Operatives of the Northern District Anti-Cybercrime Team (NDACT) arrested the suspects, identified as alias “Rick,” 49, and alias “Joe,” 29, during an entrapment operation on October 5, 2026.

According to police, the suspects allegedly presented fake receipts as proof of payment, convincing the victim to release the ordered products despite the payments not being credited to the businessman’s account.

Investigators said the scheme was allegedly carried out in 14 transactions over slightly more than a month, resulting in losses exceeding Php 1.4 million.

PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. warned business owners and online sellers against relying solely on screenshots or receipts when confirming payments.

“Simple lang ang rule: bago ilabas ang produkto, siguraduhing pumasok muna ang bayad. Huwag umasa sa screenshot o resibo lang—check the actual account. A few seconds of verification can prevent a much bigger loss,” Nartatez said.

The suspects face charges of estafa under Article 315, Paragraph 2(a) of the Revised Penal Code in relation to Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

The PNP urged businesses and consumers to verify transactions directly through their bank accounts or digital wallets before releasing products or completing sales.

Authorities also advised the public to preserve records of suspicious digital transactions and immediately report suspected fraudulent activities to law enforcement agencies.

The PNP said it would continue strengthening its operations against cybercrime and other emerging forms of fraud to protect businesses and consumers.