I. Introduction

In recent years, the Philippines has seen a surge in scam and harassing text messages, ranging from fake job offers to malicious phishing attempts and threats. These unwanted communications are not only disruptive but can also lead to serious crimes such as identity theft, fraud, and extortion. Recognizing this, the government—through the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) and the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG)—has established various legal and procedural remedies to help citizens protect themselves and seek redress.

This article provides an in-depth discussion of the legal framework, complaint procedures, and enforcement mechanisms available to address scam or harassing text messages in the Philippines.

II. Legal Framework

1. Republic Act No. 10175 — Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012

The Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 criminalizes acts committed through information and communication technologies. Scam or harassing messages may constitute:

Computer-related fraud (Sec. 4[b][2]) — when messages deceive or defraud individuals.
Cyber libel (Sec. 4[c][4]) — when messages are defamatory.
Cyber harassment or threats (Sec. 6 in relation to Revised Penal Code) — when the messages cause fear or intimidation.

The PNP-ACG enforces this law, in coordination with the Department of Justice’s Office of Cybercrime (DOJ-OOC).

2. Republic Act No. 11934 — SIM Registration Act

Enacted in 2022, the SIM Registration Act aims to deter anonymous communications used for scams or harassment. It mandates:

All SIM cards must be registered with valid ID and personal information.
Telecommunications companies (telcos) must deactivate unregistered SIMs.
Law enforcement may request information from telcos for legitimate investigations of scam or harassing texts.

This law empowers the NTC to regulate compliance and penalize telcos or subscribers who misuse SIM cards.

3. Data Privacy Act of 2012 (R.A. No. 10173)

The Data Privacy Act prohibits the unauthorized collection and use of personal data. Entities or individuals who send spam or scam messages using personal information without consent may be held liable. The National Privacy Commission (NPC) oversees complaints on privacy breaches linked to scam texting activities.

4. Revised Penal Code (RPC)

Several RPC provisions may apply to harassing or threatening messages sent via text, including:

Grave threats (Art. 282)
Light threats (Art. 283)
Unjust vexation or coercion (Arts. 287–288)

When transmitted electronically, these offenses can be qualified under the Cybercrime Law.

III. Role of the NTC

The National Telecommunications Commission is the primary regulatory agency for telcos. Its role includes:

Issuing Public Advisories — warning consumers against text scams and providing official hotlines for complaints.
Directing Telcos to Block Numbers or Links — NTC regularly orders Globe, Smart, and DITO to deactivate numbers proven to send scam or malicious texts.
Receiving and Investigating Reports — through its Consumer Welfare and Protection Division (CWPD).
Imposing Administrative Sanctions — against telcos failing to act on fraudulent traffic.

How to File a Complaint with the NTC

Steps:

Document the Message — take screenshots of the text message, sender’s number, and date/time received.
Send a Report — via email to consumer@ntc.gov.ph or contact NTC Regional Offices.
Include Details — your full name, contact number, and a short narrative of the incident.
Await Action — the NTC may coordinate with telcos to block the number or refer the case to the PNP-ACG.

The NTC may also request the telco to trace the origin of the message under lawful process.

IV. Role of the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG)

The PNP-ACG is the lead enforcement body for cybercrime offenses. It handles cases involving:

Scam and phishing text messages;
Extortion, blackmail, or harassment through SMS;
Impersonation and identity theft; and
Cyber threats or online stalking.

How to Report to the PNP-ACG

1. Through Email or Online Platforms

Email: acg@pnp.gov.ph or pnpcacg@gmail.com
Official Facebook page: PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (verified page).
Hotline: (02) 8414-1560 or local police cybercrime desks.

2. In Person

Visit the PNP-ACG Headquarters at Camp Crame, Quezon City, or any Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit (RACU) nationwide.

3. Requirements

Copy of the text message (screenshot or printed).
Any identification of the complainant.
Narrative or affidavit describing the harassment or scam.

4. Procedure

The PNP-ACG will assess the report, preserve electronic evidence, and may file a case in coordination with the Department of Justice (DOJ).

V. Remedies and Possible Legal Actions

1. Administrative Remedies

Request NTC to block or trace the number.
Demand telcos to filter or restrict known scam senders under the SIM Registration Act.

2. Criminal Remedies

File a criminal complaint with the PNP-ACG or DOJ Cybercrime Division.
Offenders may face imprisonment, fines, and revocation of SIM registration.

3. Civil Remedies

Victims may claim damages under Article 19–21 of the Civil Code for acts contrary to morals, good customs, or public policy.

VI. Preventive Measures for Consumers

Do not click suspicious links or reply to unknown numbers.
Report scam messages immediately to the NTC and PNP-ACG.
Enable spam filters in your messaging apps or telco service.
Register your SIM card properly to prevent identity misuse.
Educate others, especially elderly or vulnerable individuals, about scam tactics.

VII. Conclusion

The battle against scam and harassing text messages in the Philippines requires coordinated enforcement and public vigilance. The combined efforts of the NTC, PNP-ACG, and DOJ provide an evolving framework to trace, penalize, and prevent digital communication abuses. While laws such as the SIM Registration Act and Cybercrime Prevention Act have strengthened regulatory powers, public awareness and timely reporting remain the most effective shields against text-based fraud and harassment.

By understanding and utilizing these remedies, every Filipino can help build a safer, more accountable telecommunications environment.