NBI ARRESTS FAKE NOTARY PUBLIC IN LAS PIÑAS STING

THE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) – Organized and Transnational Crime Division (NBI-OTCD) arrested an individual in Las Piñas City for unauthorized use of a notarial commission, and violations of the Revised Penal Code in relation to the Cybercrime Prevention Act.

The operation was initiated following a referral from the Vice Executive Judge of Manila.

A complainant lawyer reported that the suspect was fraudulently offering notarial services by illegally using the lawyer’s name and professional credentials.

Investigation revealed that the suspect was operating under the business name “Rush Online Notary Service,” actively soliciting clients through various social media messaging applications.

On March 18, 2026, the NBI-OTCD executed an entrapment operation at the suspect’s office in Las Piñas City.

The suspect was caught in the act of performing notarial functions while misrepresenting themselves as the complainant lawyer.

The NBI said the suspect is facing criminal charges under the Revised Penal Code, including Falsification of Public Documents (Articles 171 and 172), Possession of Instruments for Falsification (Article 176), Usurpation of Authority or Official Functions (Article 177), and Estafa by Means of Deceit (Article 315).

NBI Director attorney Melvin A. Matibag stated that “The NBI remains steadfast in its mission to protect the integrity of our legal system. We will not tolerate individuals who undermine the notarial process and deceive the public for personal gain.”

Matibag urged the public to remain vigilant and ensure they only avail of notarial services from legitimate notary publics.