the Philippine government is stepping up with renewed vigor. The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is strengthening its national cyber complaints hotline — 1326 — to give Filipinos a powerful, responsive way to report scams, phishing attempts, and fake news.
Through this expanded system, the DICT hopes to restore public trust and empower citizens to take an active role in the fight against cybercrime and online deception.
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A Lifeline Against Scammers
During a televised interview on Bagong Pilipinas, DICT Assistant Secretary Renato Paraiso emphasized the importance of the 1326 hotline as the “first line of defense” against digital threats.
“Palalakasin natin itong hotline 1326,” said Paraiso. “Magkakaroon ho tayo ng mas malawakang response mechanism at feedback mechanism.”
More than just a call center, hotline 1326 is evolving into a multi-platform reporting tool. Users can now file reports not only via voice call but also through digital means — including the eGov PH app, web forms, and messaging apps — streamlining the process and making it more accessible for everyone, everywhere.
From Reporting to Resolution
One of the key issues the DICT aims to address is the public’s hesitation to report scams due to embarrassment or skepticism about government follow-through. Paraiso assures the public that this will change.
“Kapag nag-report kayo, kami mismo ang tatawag sa inyo,” he said, outlining a process that includes case status updates and direct feedback. “Our goal is attribution, apprehension, prosecution, and conviction.”
This commitment signals a shift from passive complaint-taking to active case-tracking — a move that puts victims at the center of the justice process.
Building a Nation of Digital Defenders
By integrating hotline 1326 into a centralized national database, DICT hopes to create a more responsive and intelligent reporting system. Each complaint contributes to a broader map of digital crimes — enabling the government to detect patterns, shut down scams faster, and take legal action more effectively.
Further strengthening these efforts is a new partnership between the DICT and the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) for fact-checking and oversight.
“Ito naman ang maganda,” Paraiso said. “Hindi gobyerno ang mismong magfa-fact-check, pero dapat may sistema ng oversight.”
This model — where the government supervises, but doesn’t directly control, fact-checking — seeks to maintain credibility while cracking down on misinformation.
Why This Matters to You
In the digital world, a single click can change everything. Whether it’s a fake investment opportunity on social media or a misleading post gone viral, the risk is real — and personal.
With the improved 1326 hotline, Filipinos now have an accessible, credible way to push back. It’s more than a number to call. It’s a national movement to reclaim our digital space — one report at a time.
If you’ve been scammed, spotted fake news, or simply want to know your rights in this digital age, dial 1326 or visit the eGov PH app. The power to protect yourself and your community starts with one action.
Stay informed. Stay vigilant. Report responsibly.
Source: Inquirer.net
