Two arrested suspects for alleged selling fake government ID's (Photo from Valenzuela City PIO)
A couple was arrested in Valenzuela City on Monday, Sept. 8, for allegedly selling counterfeit government-issued IDs through social media.
The Valenzuela City Police Station (VCPS) operatives identified the suspects as “Chippie,” 44, and “Kaye,” 40. They were accused of producing fake IDs inside their home, promoting them on social media, and delivering them to buyers through couriers.
Confiscated pieces of evidence presented during the press conference at Camp Crame on Wednesday, Sept. 10. (Photo from Valenzuela City PIO)
Investigators said the price of each fake ID ranged from P40 to P400, with payments made via e-wallets.
The operation was launched after the City Health Office (CHO) reported cases of bogus senior citizen and PWD cards being used to illegally claim discounts.
Police surveillance confirmed the scheme, leading to a raid on the couple’s residence.
Recovered during the raid were fake PhilHealth, SSS, UMID, TIN, driver’s licenses, a printer, and other forgery tools.
The arrested suspects will face charges of falsification under the Revised Penal Code and violation of the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
Valenzuela City Mayor Weslie "Wes" Gatchalian (Photo from Valenzuela City PIO)
Mayor Weslie “Wes” Gatchalian presented the suspects during a press conference at the Philippine National Police (PNP) headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City, on Wednesday, Sept. 10.
Gatchalian highlighted Valenzuela’s validation portal, VAL ID, which allows easier verification of whether a client’s presented ID is genuine or fake.
The portal can be accessed via https://valid.valenzuela.gov.ph/ using either a phone or a desktop. With this system, real-time ID verification during transactions is made faster and more efficient.
The city government plans to intensify its campaign through strengthened public awareness efforts.