QuestionsQuestions (POEA ADVISORY NO. 34, S. 2010)
It is an advisory for the information and guidance of Filipinos concerned, warning against lending computer laptops in Macau due to a reported case where such laptops were allegedly used in an online credit card scam.
The advisory mentions an alleged HK$300,000 online credit card scam.
They were allegedly involved in the online credit card scam. However, the advisory notes they claimed innocence by stating their laptops were lent to friends/acquaintances who used them for internet access.
They professed innocence, claiming they had lent their computer laptops to friends and acquaintances to let them access the internet and contact families in the Philippines.
Because the laptops that Filipinos lent were used in the illegal activity. Even if the lending worker claims no participation, the use of their devices can link them to the scam in investigations and arrests.
They are strongly advised to refrain from or take extra precaution when lending their computer laptops to friends and acquaintances.
It is advisory guidance, not a statute. The language uses “strongly advised” and “For the information and guidance,” suggesting a preventive advisory rather than an imposition of penalties.
It indicates the advisory is preventive/informational. Legal consequences would arise only if the individuals are actually found liable under substantive criminal laws; the advisory itself does not create criminal liability.
Facts such as actual control or possession of the laptop during the scam, proof of knowledge or participation, timing of lending vs. scam activity, presence/usage logs, communications, and whether the lender authorized or facilitated the illegal use.
While not expressly stated, the context implies serious consequences for OFWs, including arrest/implication due to their association with the illegal activity through their devices, which can affect employment prospects and legal standing.
Filipinos wishing to work overseas, especially those in Macau, and “all concerned,” meaning recruitment/overseas workers and related stakeholders needing guidance.
The advisory reports that the arrested Filipinos claim innocence and that their laptops were lent. This illustrates that linkage through device use is not identical to proof of criminal intent or direct participation.
It teaches that personal assets used for internet access (like laptops) should not be indiscriminately lent, because misuse can create legal exposure even when the owner claims no wrongdoing.
Because the reported scam allegedly used the laptops of Filipino workers. The advisory identifies lending as the point of vulnerability that led to the alleged association with the online credit card scam.