A Quezon City court has ordered a couple linked to an alleged bibingka investment scheme to pay one complainant P4.9 million in a civil award covering dishonored checks, damages and annual interest.
In its ruling, the Metropolitan Trial Court in Quezon City directed spouses Norminda Sope Esperilla and Dave Froilan Arizala Esperilla, identified as the owners of Mang Domeng’s Bibingka, to compensate the complainant following a dispute arising from investments allegedly made in their business.
The complainant, who requested anonymity, said she began putting money into the venture in 2021 after being convinced by the couple, whom she had known since high school. She said the funds represented savings meant for her children’s schooling and that she had repeatedly sought repayment while facing serious health and financial difficulties.
The case stemmed from allegations that several individuals were persuaded to invest in the business on the promise of high returns tied to its expansion. But instead of gains, investors allegedly received checks that were later dishonored.
The same couple has been the subject of complaints from other investors, with total claims reportedly reaching hundreds of millions of pesos. At least a dozen complainants have already brought their cases to court.
Despite the monetary award granted to the complainant, the court cleared the couple of criminal liability under Batas Pambansa Blg. 22, the law penalizing the issuance of bouncing checks.
Counsel for the complainant, lawyer Minstrelle More, said other cases involving the same respondents are still being pursued and that a large-scale estafa complaint is also being prepared.
The couple did not issue any statement on the ruling.