The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has issued fresh warnings against several individuals and entities allegedly involved in fraudulent investment schemes, urging the public to remain vigilant.
In an advisory released Tuesday, the SEC flagged scams involving fake representatives of COL Financial Group Inc., who used forged documents and impersonated former employees to lure victims. These individuals claimed that previously lost investments had been “reinvested” and demanded multiple fees for withdrawal—none of which were returned.
The Commission also warned against De Guzman Consumer Goods Trading, a business allegedly offering returns of up to 200 percent within 60 days. The SEC said the firm is not authorized to solicit investments and described its operations as similar to a Ponzi scheme.
Another advisory targeted Christabel Arroyo, who allegedly promoted a bitcoin mining investment via Facebook and Messenger, promising ₱50,000 in earnings within 24 hours for a ₱5,000 investment. The SEC classified this as an unregistered investment contract.
Violators of securities laws may face fines of up to ₱5 million and imprisonment of up to 21 years. The SEC urged victims to report incidents to the PNP, NBI, or DOJ.
The Bench Files 
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