PNP warns public against love scams ahead of Valentine’s Day

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday warned the public to remain vigilant against love scams as Valentine’s Day approaches.

In a statement, the PNP noted a decline in reported cases this year, with only six incidents recorded from January 1 to February 5.

Despite the drop, authorities said the threat of love scams remains “real and persistent.”

“Hindi masama ang magmahal, pero mas mahalaga ang mag-ingat… (It’s not bad to fall in love, but it’s more important to be careful…) Scammers prey on loneliness, trust, and hope—especially online," PNP Chief Police General Jose Nartatez Jr. said.

"We want the public to enjoy Valentine’s Day safely, without becoming victims of deception,” he added.

Love scams typically occur online, where perpetrators build emotional attachments with victims before requesting money or sensitive personal information such as bank details or identification cards.

Older individuals who are single, widowed, or emotionally vulnerable are often the most targeted.

“Mabilis ma-in love, laging may emergency sa pera, at maraming dahilan kung bakit hindi makaharap—iyan ang mga red flag… (They fall in love quickly, there’s always an emergency involving money, and there are many excuses for why they can’t meet you—those are the red flags)," he said. 

"Once they start asking for money or personal information, that’s your signal to stop and walk away,” Nartatez added.

The PNP said it handled 75 love scam cases in 2024, which fell to 54 cases in 2025, highlighting a downward trend but cautioning that vigilance remains necessary.—MCG, GMA Integrated News