Filing a complaint for an investment scam in the Philippines is not only practical but also necessary to hold scammers accountable and seek justice. Investment scams are illegal and are often categorized under fraud or estafa, which are criminal offenses under Philippine law.

Legal Grounds for Filing a Complaint
Under the Revised Penal Code of the Philippines, investment scams can be prosecuted as estafa, which involves deceit or fraudulent acts that cause damage to another party. In addition, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has regulatory authority to investigate and prosecute investment scams, especially those involving unregistered securities or investment products.

Steps to File a Complaint

Document the Scam: Gather all relevant documents and evidence, such as contracts, receipts, communication records, and any marketing materials provided by the scammer.
File a Complaint with the SEC: If the scam involves unregistered securities, file a complaint with the SEC. The SEC will investigate and may initiate administrative or criminal proceedings against the perpetrators.
File a Criminal Complaint: If you believe a crime has been committed, you can file a criminal complaint with the appropriate authorities, such as the police or the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). The complaint should detail the scam and include all evidence you have gathered.
Seek Legal Advice: Consulting with a lawyer is advisable to understand the specific legal remedies available to you, including the possibility of pursuing a civil case for damages.

Practical Considerations
Filing a complaint is a crucial step in seeking justice, but it's essential to consider the practical aspects:

Time and Resources: Legal processes can be time-consuming and may require financial resources, especially if the case is complicated.
Likelihood of Recovery: The chances of recovering the lost amount depend on various factors, including the ability of the authorities to locate and prosecute the scammer, and whether the scammer has any assets that can be used for restitution.
Public Awareness: Reporting the scam can help prevent others from falling victim to similar schemes, contributing to public awareness and deterrence.

Conclusion
In the Philippines, filing a complaint for an investment scam is a practical and necessary step to address fraud. It helps in seeking justice, potentially recovering lost funds, and preventing future scams. However, it is important to weigh the practical challenges and seek professional legal advice to navigate the process effectively.