NBI arrests siblings running fake notary operation in Makati

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has arrested two siblings for allegedly operating a fraudulent notary service in Makati City, using the identities of licensed lawyers to legitimize their operations.

NBI spokesperson Palmer Mallari identified the suspects as a 20-year-old woman and a 31-year-old man from Taguig City. According to the spokesperson, the pair had been conducting falsified notarial services, potentially affecting numerous transactions and documents across the metropolis.

Notarization is a critical legal process in the Philippines, with notaries public required to authenticate signatures and certify documents. The use of fake notary services can invalidate contracts, property transfers, and other important legal instruments.

The NBI has been investigating cases involving document fraud and unauthorized legal services, with this operation representing a significant enforcement action against such schemes. The suspects are currently in NBI custody pending further investigation and possible criminal charges related to fraud and impersonation of professionals.

The case underscores growing concerns about document fraud in the country and authorities' efforts to protect the integrity of the legal and notarization systems.