More than 86 individuals have stepped forward to file formal complaints against abusive online lending operators, according to the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC).
In a statement released Saturday, the agency said victims arrived at its office as early as 6 a.m., determined to finally have their voices heard after enduring harassment, threats, and intimidation from online lending applications (OLAs).
“These people traveled far just to make sure their stories would be heard,” PAOCC said, noting the emotional weight behind the mass filing.
Representatives from the United Online Lending Applications Victims Movement, a civil society group offering assistance and guidance to victims, were also present during the filing of sworn statements.
PAOCC Undersecretary Gilberto DC Cruz described the move as a powerful show of courage. “This is a clear sign that more Filipinos are choosing to assert their rights and fight back against abuse,” Cruz said.
He revealed that the agency is currently managing around 150 formal complaints, with expectations for more as victims continue to come forward.
“These abusive practices must end, and we are committed to holding perpetrators accountable,” he added.
The PAOCC earlier this week launched a crackdown on abusive online lending schemes, aiming to provide victims with legal support while curbing exploitative tactics such as public shaming, doxing, and coercive messaging—acts that violate data privacy and human dignity.
