Philippines to deploy NBI attaches to Middle East to combat cybercrime

The Philippines’ National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is planning to deploy specialized personnel to diplomatic posts, beginning with the Middle East, to assist overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) targeted by cyberfraud. NBI Director Melvin Matibag stated that the agency is collaborating with the Department of Foreign Affairs to establish a framework for these attaches in missions serving large Filipino communities.

Data from the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Council (CICC) indicates a rise in cybercrime complaints among OFWs, with 596 cases reported between January and September 28, 2026. The UAE has recorded the highest number of such complaints. Common fraudulent activities include online lending scams, consumer product fraud, and real estate scams.

Demographic data shows that women account for 64 percent of victims, while the most affected age group is 30–49, representing 74 percent of filed complaints. The initiative aims to provide direct investigative support in regions with high concentrations of Filipinos, such as the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait.