25/04/2026
PRESS RELEASE | NBI ARRESTS FIVE FOR ILLEGAL NOTARY PUBLIC
Pasay City, Philippines – On April 23, 2026, the NBI-Fraud and Financial Crimes Division (NBI-FFCD) arrested five individuals engaged in illegal notary public operation in the City of Manila.
The operation was initiated following a complaint from a duly commissioned Notary Public of Manila. She alleged that her Notarial Commission, including her notarial stamp and seal, is being used without her knowledge and consent. The complainant provided information about the location of the illegal notary public, which is situated in the City of Manila.
In response, the agents of the NBI-FFCD quickly verified the accuracy of the information through a test-buy operation, confirming that the notary public was using the complainant's Notarial Commission and had falsified her signature.
The agents of the NBI-FFCD organized an entrapment operation and went to the office of the target notary public. They discreetly positioned themselves nearby. An undercover agent, posing as a client, submitted an affidavit of loss for notarization. While the notarization process was taking place, NBI-FFCD agents moved in and arrested the individuals involved.
The arrested subjects will be charged with Falsification of Public Document by Private Individuals, Possession of instruments or Implements Intended for the Commission of Falsification, and Attempted Estafa.
NBI Director Atty. Melvin A. Matibag commended the agents of the NBI-FFCD for their recent successful operation targeting illegal notary public services. Atty. Matibag also issued a stern warning to individuals and groups involved in these illegal activities, emphasizing that the National Bureau of Investigation will pursue them relentlessly and ensure that they face the full consequences of the law. He reiterated the NBI's commitment to maintaining the integrity of legal services and protecting the public from fraudulent practices.
