The suspect in the alleged use of a counterfeit P1,000 bill is presented by police following her arrest in Barangay Flores, Malabon City on May 20, 2026. (Photo courtesy of the Malabon City Police Station)
A 48-year-old woman was arrested on Wednesday night, May 20, after allegedly using a counterfeit ₱1,000 bill to pay for groceries in Barangay Flores, Malabon City.
Based on the report of Malabon City Police (MCPS) Station Sub-Station 7, the suspect bought grocery items worth P300 at a consumer goods trading establishment and paid using the suspected fake P1,000 bill.
Police said the transaction was flagged after the cashier noticed irregularities in the banknote and immediately sought assistance from on-duty officers stationed nearby, prompting verification that led to the suspect’s arrest.
During the arrest, authorities also recovered four additional suspected counterfeit P1,000 bills from her possession.
The suspect was informed of her constitutional rights and underwent a medical examination before being brought to the MCPS for documentation.
She will be charged for violating Article 168 of the Revised Penal Code, or Illegal Possession and Use of False Treasury or Bank Notes and Other Instruments of Credit.
Authorities urged the public to carefully inspect cash received in transactions and immediately report suspicious currency to prevent the circulation of counterfeit money in the community.