NBI Cybercrime Division Arrests Suspects for Unauthorized Internet Service Distribution in Cavite and La Union

Agents from the National Bureau of Investigation–Cybercrime Division (NBI-CCD) have detained three suspects in separate operations in Cavite and La Union for violations related to illegal access and unauthorized distribution of internet services. The arrests followed complaints filed by a major internet service provider regarding unauthorized offerings on social media.

Vanessa B. Vasquez and Philip Niño C. Mercado were apprehended in General Trias City, Cavite, for breaching Section 4(a)(1) (Illegal Access) of Republic Act No. 10175, also known as the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. In a separate incident, Joshua Fernandez Lictan was detained in Naguilian, La Union, on charges of illegal access, misuse of devices, system interference, and unauthorized network distribution connected to estafa under relevant Philippine laws.

The investigation was triggered on June 4, 2025, when a representative of the internet provider lodged a complaint over a Facebook account "RECON VERGECON," which was allegedly promoting unauthorized internet services. These included reactivating disconnected accounts, bandwidth enhancements, modem support, new subscriber connections, and "speed boosting" services offered at reduced prices without the provider's consent.

Following technical and onsite tracing of the company's proprietary network access points, NBI-CCD agents linked these illegal activities to a residence in Barangay Parklane Country Homes in General Trias City. After securing a Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data (WSSECD) from the Regional Trial Court Branch 130 in Trece Martires, agents executed the warrant on August 28, 2025. Upon entry, Philip Mercado was found operating a computer on the ground floor while Vanessa Vasquez was using another on the upper floor. Digital forensic analysis confirmed the presence of four MAC addresses flagged by the internet service provider as sources of illegal access. Consequently, the suspects were arrested, and the equipment was confiscated as evidence.

In a subsequent operation on September 16, 2025, NBI-CCD agents arrested Joshua Fernandez Lictan at a three-storey house in Cabaritan Sur, Naguilian. Investigations revealed unauthorized utilization of the provider's IP addresses and modems to distribute internet service illegally to neighboring residences. Authorities executed another WSSECD, confiscating multiple computer devices involved in the unlawful distribution.

The suspects are currently undergoing inquest proceedings for the violations incurred. NBI Director Santiago lauded the Cybercrime Division agents for their effective enforcement efforts, which successfully dismantled these unauthorized cyber activities.