NBI seizes over $200-M fake cash, treasury bonds

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) seized more than $200 million worth of counterfeit money and treasury bonds, according to a report of GMA Integrated News' John Consulta Friday.

The report said the NBI arrested one suspect over the fake cash which included US dollars and Malaysian ringgit. Authorities likewise seized counterfeit US treasury bonds.

The NBI presented the counterfeit money and treasury bonds to the media.

In Christian Maño’s dzBB Super Radyo report, the NBI further said the Filipino suspect, who is a US citizen, was arrested in a buy-bust operation. The suspect denied selling counterfeit money and said the cash was provided by a friend.

He also denied knowing it was fake.

Authorities said the suspect will be facing multiple complaints for possession and distribution of counterfeit money as well as for using three different names. 

NBI Director Melvin Matibag said the agency now has a lead on the possible source of the fake money, adding the NBI is continuously coordinating with other government offices to curb illegal activities. 

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), for its part, raised alarm on the improved quality of the fake cash and reminded the public to remain vigilant against counterfeit money.

Nasa $200 million na pekeng pera at treasury bonds, nakumpiska ng National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). | via @xtian_mano pic.twitter.com/xfvGYHHyHp

— DZBB Super Radyo (@dzbb) March 13, 2026

 —Sundy Locus/AOL, GMA Integrated News