SC warns public against fake orders

The Supreme Court on Wednesday warned the public against fake orders and subpoenas allegedly perpetrated by scammers. — File photo

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Supreme Court (SC) on Wednesday warned the public against fake orders and subpoenas allegedly perpetrated by scammers.

Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo himself made the pronouncement amid a surge in fake notices and subpoenas being recorded by the SC.

READ: SC warns public about man posing as Chief Justice Gesmundo

“Sa mga kababayan ko, ‘wag kayo basta basta maniniwala sa mga notisya, o subpoena na natatanggap niyo o nakikita niyo sa social media na kayo ay inuutusan pumunta sa hukuman para magpaliwanag sa kung ano mang bagay,” said Gesmundo in a chance interview.

(To my countrymen, do not simply believe the notices or subpoenas you receive or see on social media ordering you to go to court to explain something.)

“Siguraduhin niyo na ang notisya ay totoo o tama, mag-verifika kayo sa court,” he added, also telling the public that they may also verify the notices they receive in the SC’s Public Information Office.

(Make sure the notice is true or correct, verify with the court.)

Asked if the SC is already coordinating with law enforcement regarding the false notices, Gesmundo responded in the affirmative, explaining that the high court has requested the help of the National Bureau of Investigation, as well as the Philippine National Police in verifying and identifying the culprits behind the fake notices.

READ: SC directs Duterte ally to explain false TRO claim

In a press conference, SC spokesperson Camille Ting noted that the common denominator between the fake notices is how they always seek to end up in settlements.

“Based on information, these are scammers, usually seeking to collect money,” said Ting.

Ting said the number of fake notices recorded has recently increased, adding that the Office of the Court Administrator has already issued a circular warning trial courts of the situation.

Asked what the possible penalties are for those spreading fake Court notices, Ting said suspects will face criminal liabilities, or admin sanctions if they are lawyers.