[Date]

Dear Attorney,

I am writing to seek your urgent assistance regarding a matter of great concern that involves my friend, who has become a victim of sextortion through social media and messaging platforms. I am seeking your guidance on the appropriate legal remedies and actions under Philippine law to address this issue effectively.

My friend encountered a woman claiming to be from the Philippines on an English learning platform. The individual persuaded my friend to continue their conversation through Instagram, later moving to WhatsApp. During their video conversations, the woman engaged in behavior that led to the recording of explicit video content involving my friend. She is now using these recordings to extort money by threatening to share them with his friends and family.

The woman’s contact details are as follows:

Phone Number: +63 963 721 7148
Instagram Account: https://www.instagram.com/sams_chie.cruz01

Evidence of the interaction has been preserved, including screenshots and recordings, to support the case. Please advise on the steps necessary to ensure my friend’s safety and pursue legal action against the perpetrator.

Sincerely,
[Descriptor of the Sender]

Legal Framework Addressing Sextortion and Cyber Extortion in the Philippines

Sextortion is a criminal act under Philippine law, classified as a form of extortion that involves the use of sexual images or videos to coerce individuals into providing money or other favors. It is often perpetuated through social media, messaging platforms, and other online channels. Below is a detailed discussion of the laws, remedies, and enforcement mechanisms available under Philippine law to address this concern.

1. Applicable Laws

Several laws in the Philippines directly address sextortion and cyber extortion:

a. Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009 (R.A. 9995)

This law prohibits the recording, reproduction, or sharing of intimate images or videos without the consent of the person involved. Key provisions include:

Section 4 outlines that recording or sharing private acts without consent is a criminal offense.
Penalties include imprisonment ranging from three to seven years and fines of up to ₱500,000.

b. Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 (R.A. 10175)

This law penalizes crimes committed using information and communication technology. Pertinent provisions include:

Section 4(c)(1): Cybersex - Using the internet to exploit or abuse individuals for sexual purposes.
Section 4(b)(3): Cyber Extortion - Using ICT to extort money or other benefits through threats.
Penalties may involve imprisonment of up to twelve years and significant fines.

c. Revised Penal Code

Article 282: Grave Threats - Penalizes threatening harm or injury to coerce someone into compliance.
Article 294: Robbery with Intimidation - Applicable when the act involves coercion to extract money or property.

2. Steps to Address the Situation

a. Preserve Evidence

Your friend should compile all available evidence, including:

Screenshots of chats and messages.
Details of the video calls, including timestamps.
Any other communication with the perpetrator.

b. Report to Authorities

Cybercrime Division of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI):
- The NBI Cybercrime Division is equipped to handle sextortion cases. Your friend can file a complaint by presenting the preserved evidence and providing detailed accounts of the events.
- Hotline: (02) 523-8231 / (02) 525-4093
Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG):
- The PNP-ACG specializes in addressing cybercrimes, including sextortion.
- Hotline: (02) 723-0401 local 5313 / Mobile: 0917-847-5757

c. File a Formal Complaint

Your friend can file a complaint with either the NBI or PNP-ACG. The formal complaint should include:

A notarized affidavit narrating the events.
Supporting evidence (screenshots, call logs, videos).

d. Seek a Protection Order

If there are threats of harm, your friend may petition for a Protection Order under the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act (R.A. 9262).

3. Remedies Available to Victims

a. Criminal Prosecution

Victims can pursue criminal charges under R.A. 9995 and R.A. 10175. Upon conviction, the perpetrator may face imprisonment and fines.

b. Civil Remedies

Victims can file a civil case for damages under Article 19, 20, and 21 of the Civil Code of the Philippines, citing abuse of rights and acts contrary to morals.

c. Injunctive Relief

Victims may petition the court for an injunction to prevent the further dissemination of explicit materials.

4. Preventive Measures and Advocacy

a. Public Awareness Campaigns

Government agencies, in collaboration with private organizations, continue to raise awareness about online safety and the dangers of sextortion.

b. Secure Digital Footprint

Encourage individuals to:

Avoid sharing personal or sensitive information online.
Enable privacy settings on social media accounts.

c. Education on Cyber Etiquette

Educational programs in schools and communities aim to inform citizens about responsible online behavior.

5. Role of the Legal Practitioner

As a legal advocate, your role will involve:

Assisting your client in drafting the necessary affidavits and complaints.
Coordinating with law enforcement agencies to expedite the investigation.
Representing the client in criminal and civil proceedings.

Your legal expertise and meticulous attention to detail are crucial in navigating this complex case. Please provide guidance on how my friend can proceed to ensure justice is served while safeguarding their reputation and mental well-being.

This letter and accompanying legal overview are presented with utmost confidence in your capacity to deliver justice. Your assistance in this matter will make a significant difference in combating cybercrime and ensuring the safety of victims.

Sincerely,
[Descriptor of the Sender]