NBI arrests six for alleged sale of BARMM parliament ositions

DAVAO CITY —The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), arrested six individuals on January 2, 2025, for allegedly attempting to sell government positions in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliament.

The suspects, identified as Diahn Sanchez Dagohoy (Diane), Bolkisah Balt Datadacula, Alejandro Barcena Lorino Jr., Ronald, Joseph Catunao, Leomer Abon, and Tita Natividad, face charges of Syndicated Estafa and violation of Article 177 of the Revised Penal Code (Usurpation of Authority or Official Functions).

According to NBI Director Jaime Santiago, the operation began after a complaint was filed on January 2, alleging that on December 29, 2024, Diane contacted the complainant, offering a seat in the BARMM Parliament for ₱8 million. The complainant pretended to be interested and continued engaging with the suspects.

The suspects later raised the offer, promising two BARMM Parliament seats for the complainant’s son and nephew in exchange for ₱15 million. Diane assured the complainant that the appointments would be arranged by “no less than the First Lady” and that the appointees would take their oath of office on January 3, 2025.

A meeting was arranged at the Manila Hotel on January 2, where STF and CCD operatives executed a joint entrapment operation. The suspects were arrested after receiving marked money and falsely identifying themselves as Office of the President (OP) employees.

The Office of the President later certified that the suspects were neither employees of the Palace nor connected to the government in any capacity.

Director Santiago commended the swift action of the STF and CCD operatives, emphasizing that government positions are not for sale. “The government will not tolerate fraudulent activities like this, and we will pursue cases against individuals who tarnish the integrity of our institutions,” Santiago said.

The NBI has reiterated its warning to the public to remain vigilant against scams involving government positions or privileges. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to authorities.

This incident highlights the ongoing vigilance of law enforcement agencies in safeguarding the integrity of government offices and ensuring that public trust remains intact.