Photo credit: NBI

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), led by Director Judge Jaime B. Santiago (Ret.), successfully dismantled a syndicate involved in selling fake government positions. The suspects—Diahn Sanchez Dagohoy (aka Diane), Bolkisah Balt Datadacula, Alejandro Barcena Lorino Jr., Ronald, Joseph Catunao, Leomer Abon, and Tita Natividad—were arrested for Syndicated Estafa and Usurpation of Authority under Article 177 of the Revised Penal Code.

Director Santiago shared the shocking details of the scheme. On January 2, 2025, a complaint reached the NBI’s Special Task Force (STF) and Cybercrime Division (CCD). The complainant revealed that on December 29, 2024, "Diane" contacted him with an outrageous offer: a seat in the Bangsamoro (BARMM) Parliament for a price of ₱8 million.

To expose the scam, the complainant played along, and the negotiations escalated. Diane promised two BARMM Parliament seats for the complainant’s son and nephew, raising the price to ₱15 million. She even claimed the First Lady herself was involved and guaranteed that the appointments would include an oath-taking on January 3, 2025.

A meeting was set at the Manila Hotel on January 2. Acting swiftly, the NBI’s STF and CCD launched an entrapment operation. The suspects were caught red-handed receiving marked money and posing as employees of the Office of the President. However, certifications from Malacañang confirmed that none of the suspects had any connection to the Palace.

Director Santiago praised the quick action of the STF and CCD, emphasizing that, “There is no way government positions are for sale.”

This operation serves as a stark warning against schemes targeting public trust and reinforces the government's stand against corruption. Let’s stay vigilant, folks—government seats are not up for grabs at any price.