Senate Minority Leader Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III said he will pursue stronger cybersecurity laws that would impose harsher penalties to scammers and other cybercriminals.

Pimentel made the call as he echoed Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas’ statement against scammers, emphasizing the moral and legal repercussions of fraudulent activities.

The senator vowed to prioritize legislative measures aimed at combating fraud and protecting the public from financial predators.

"I fully echo Archbishop Villegas' sentiments. Those who engage in scams not only violate our laws but also commit grave moral offenses," Pimentel said.

“Congress should strengthen our laws and enforcement mechanisms to put an end to these fraudulent schemes,” he stressed.

Pimentel, who is running for mayor of Marikina, said that during one of his consultations with the constituents, becoming a victim of scams has emerged as a top problem.

According to the senator, equipping law enforcement agencies with advanced tools and training to combat online fraud more effectively is very important.

Likewise, he also stressed the need for a nationwide public awareness campaign in collaboration with religious institutions, schools and media outlets to educate Filipinos on identifying and avoiding online scams.

Moreover, there should also be increased government support for scam victims, including legal assistance, counseling services, and avenues for redress, Pimentel said.

Pimentel also said international cooperation is a must, as he called for stronger alliances with global cybersecurity organizations to track, apprehend, and prosecute scammers who operate across borders.

At the same time, the lawmaker called on communities to be vigilant and proactive in reporting fraudulent activities.

“By sharing their experiences and reporting scams, victims and the public can help build a stronger, more informed society that is resilient against fraud,” he said.