An employee of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is facing criminal and administrative charges for alleged illegal recruitment.

Authorities arrested the employee assigned at the Coast Guard Logistics and Finance Management Center-Southwestern Mindanao (CGLFMC-SWM) in an entrapment operation in Zamboanga City on Saturday, July 6, 2024.

The operation was launched after a PCG applicant reported that the suspect allegedly offered to assist her on her application in exchange for money worth P250,000 last June 27, 2024.

The suspect is now under the custody of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit-Zamboanga (CIDG-9) and will face charges for estafa. He will also face administrative charges under the Revised Guidelines and Procedures on the Disposition of Violations of the Code of Conduct and Discipline for PCG Uniformed Personnel.

A formal investigation has been conducted by the Coast Guard Inspector General and Internal Affairs Service (CGIGIAS).

“The Philippine Coast Guard reaffirms its commitment to zero tolerance for actions that undermine the principles of fairness, integrity, and meritocracy. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities related to the recruitment process,” PCG said.