Actress and comedian Rufa Mae Quinto was released from custody on Thursday after posting bail totaling ₱1.7 million for 14 counts of alleged violations of Section 8 of the Securities Regulation Code. The charges stem from accusations about her involvement as an endorser of the skincare company Dermacare, which has faced numerous investor complaints.
Accompanied by National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) operatives, Quinto appeared before the Pasay Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 111, where she pleaded not guilty to the charges. The court had issued an arrest warrant against the actress last year based on complaints filed by Dermacare investors.
In a light-hearted moment after securing her release, Quinto joked with reporters, saying, “Go, go, go home na ako!”
Quinto had surrendered to NBI authorities upon her arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) on Wednesday after returning from the United States.
Denies role in alleged fraud
In her defense, Quinto maintained that she was merely an endorser for Dermacare and had no involvement in seeking investments for the company. She emphasized her lack of knowledge about the complainants or the company’s financial dealings, claiming she was also a victim of bounced checks from Dermacare.
“Wala naman akong kinalaman sa kanila. Hindi ko naman sila na-meet, or nakilala. In fact, ako din, hindi rin nabayaran. Nag-bounce lahat ng cheke,” Quinto explained.
The actress urged the investors to pursue legal action against Dermacare’s owners instead of singling her out. “Sana ‘yung mga biktima, ‘yun ang hanapin n’yo, ‘yung may-ari… I-highlight n’yo kung sino ang kawatan dito, hindi ‘yung porket artista, ikaw na agad ‘yung nasa news,” she added.
Co-accused Neri Naig-Miranda also faces charges
Actress and social media personality Neri Naig-Miranda, also accused, appeared in court alongside her husband, Parokya ni Edgar frontman Chito Miranda. Naig-Miranda’s arraignment was deferred due to unresolved motions before the court. She declined to answer questions from reporters.
Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon stated that the syndicated estafa case against Naig-Miranda would be brought before the Department of Justice for further review.
The Dermacare controversy
Dermacare, a skincare and wellness company, allegedly promised high returns to its investors, many of whom have since claimed they were victims of fraud. According to the complaints, investors were lured into investing in the company but later found themselves unable to recover their investments.
Quinto and Naig-Miranda were reportedly tapped as endorsers for Dermacare, which allegedly used their celebrity status to gain credibility among investors. Both actresses denied involvement in the company’s financial operations, stating they were merely hired for promotional purposes.
Quinto revealed that she only worked with the company for three months before her contract was terminated due to bounced payments. She insists she was unaware of the company’s alleged fraudulent practices.
Dermacare has yet to release a statement regarding the allegations. Attempts to contact the company for comment remain unanswered.
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has reiterated its warning to the public about engaging in unregistered investment schemes, urging victims to file complaints directly with their office.
The Dermacare case highlights a growing issue of celebrity endorsements being used to legitimize questionable businesses. Public figures often find themselves entangled in legal disputes when the companies they promote are accused of fraud.
In Quinto’s case, the actress argues that her involvement was purely contractual and that she had no control over Dermacare’s operations. Legal experts note that while celebrities may not be directly liable for the actions of the companies they endorse, their association can lead to public and legal scrutiny.
Meanwhile, California continues to battle devastating wildfires, with tens of thousands displaced and widespread destruction reported. Hollywood celebrities and local communities have mobilized efforts to support those affected, showcasing solidarity amid the ongoing tragedy.
As the cases against Quinto and Naig-Miranda proceed, the controversy is a cautionary tale about the risks of endorsements and the importance of due diligence for celebrities and investors.