Important Disclaimer: I am not an attorney, and the following information is provided for general informational purposes only. If you need legal advice or assistance in pursuing a case, please consult a qualified legal professional or contact the appropriate authorities.

What is Estafa?

In the Philippines, the term “estafa” generally refers to fraud, swindling, or deceit, governed by Article 315 (and related articles) of the Revised Penal Code. Estafa involves wrongful or deceitful acts—such as misappropriation of money or property—that cause damage or prejudice to another party.

General Guidelines for Reporting Estafa (Fraud)

Gather All Evidence
- Documentary Evidence: Receipts, contracts, emails, text messages, bank statements, screenshots of online transactions, or any other written records.
- Witnesses: Obtain names, contact information, and statements of any witnesses who can substantiate your claim.
- Timeline of Events: Write down a clear sequence of what happened, when it happened, and who was involved. This makes it easier to file a well-structured complaint.
Identify the Appropriate Authority
- Local Police: You can file a complaint or request for a blotter entry at the nearest police station in the area where the estafa occurred.
- National Bureau of Investigation (NBI): For higher-profile or complex fraud cases—especially online scams—consider seeking assistance from the NBI’s Cybercrime Division or regional offices.
- Prosecution Office: Ultimately, criminal charges are filed before the Office of the City or Provincial Prosecutor. Some victims choose to go directly to the prosecutor’s office (or have their lawyer do so) to file a formal complaint-affidavit.
File a Complaint Affidavit
- Legal Assistance: If possible, consult a lawyer to help you draft a complaint affidavit. This document contains your narrative of the facts, legal basis, and the relief or remedies you seek.
- Supporting Affidavits: If there are witnesses, they should also submit sworn statements or affidavits supporting your account.
Cooperate with the Investigation
- Attend Hearings and Submissions: Once the prosecutor receives your complaint, they may invite you to clarify details or submit additional evidence.
- Respond to Requests: Cooperate promptly when authorities ask for further evidence or clarification. Delays or lack of cooperation can affect the progress of your case.
Monitor the Case
- Stay Updated: After you file the case, keep track of any communications from the prosecutor’s office or law enforcement agency.
- Case Status: Cases may go through a preliminary investigation, during which the prosecutor decides whether there is probable cause to charge the suspect in court.
Consider Civil Remedies (if applicable)
- Civil Case for Recovery: Apart from criminal prosecution, you may file a separate civil case to recover money or property lost due to fraud.
- Legal Counsel: Seek legal advice on whether you should file a civil case alongside, or following, the criminal complaint.

Practical Tips

Act Promptly
- Reporting estafa early can prevent further harm and can help law enforcement authorities act quickly, especially if funds or assets can still be traced and secured.
Maintain Confidentiality
- While it’s important to gather evidence, avoid sharing sensitive details on social media or publicly, as this may compromise the investigation or the integrity of your evidence.
Secure Communication
- Use official channels (e.g., phone, email, in-person visits to the police or prosecutor’s office) to stay informed. Beware of scammers who may pretend to be officials handling your case.
Be Wary of Settlements
- Sometimes, the accused may offer restitution or out-of-court settlement. Consult a lawyer before agreeing to any settlement, making sure you understand the legal implications and whether your rights are fully protected.
Documentation & Organization
- Keep a dedicated folder or file—physical or digital—containing all documents, evidence, communication logs, and official notices related to your case. This makes it simpler to respond to requests and minimizes the risk of losing important records.

Contact Information

Philippine National Police (PNP):
- Visit your nearest local station or check PNP’s official website for contact details.
National Bureau of Investigation (NBI):
- For complaints involving large-scale fraud, cybercrimes, or if you’re unsure about the appropriate local office, see NBI’s official website or call their hotline to locate the nearest office.
Department of Justice (DOJ):
- The Office of the City or Provincial Prosecutor operates under the DOJ. Official DOJ website for guidelines on filing complaints.

Conclusion:
Reporting estafa involves timely action, thorough documentation, and close cooperation with law enforcement and legal professionals. While it can be daunting to navigate the legal process, taking these steps helps ensure that the authorities can properly evaluate and prosecute valid fraud claims. For detailed guidance specific to your case, consult a lawyer and/or contact the relevant authorities directly.