ILOILO CITY — Governor Esteban Evan Contreras II urged the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to investigate an alleged new investment scam in Capiz province.
“Capiz is already being known as the scam capital of the country. Our aim here is to not let these activities go on and the persons involved enjoy the fruits of the labor of our hapless constituents who often fall victim because of the lure of easy money,” Contreras expressed.
The governor wrote to NBI-Capiz Dir. Manuel Fayre Jr. and Police Colonel Winston De Belen, chief of the Capiz Police Provincial Office, to conduct an in-depth investigation on another “double your money” scheme.
For the past several years, Capiz has been in the radar of both the NBI and PNP after many residents have come forward that they have been victimized in investment scams.
The most notorious is the one ran by Patrocenio Chiyuto Jr. Popularly known as “Don Chiyuto”, who allegedly scammed millions of pesos from the people of Capiz. Last February 2021, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) revoked Chiyuto’s license and fined him P9 million.
To avoid more victims, Contreras is urging the NBI and police to file appropriate cases in court to end the illegal activities.
Contreras also disclosed that he has been even accused of linkage to the investment scams.
In a statement, Contreras said he is willing to resign if there is evidence against him.