NBI and PAOCC Crack Down on Online Lending Firm in Makati for Harassing Borrowers

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a significant move to combat rising online lending abuses, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) recently raided a controversial online lending company in Makati City, Golden Koi Lending Co. Inc. The operation, which occurred on October 20, 2023, sent shockwaves through the public, as it uncovered widespread allegations of harassment and intimidation aimed at borrowers who failed to pay their debts on time.

The Golden Koi Lending Co. Scandal: What Happened?

Golden Koi Lending Co. Inc., a company operating in the heart of Makati, has been in the spotlight due to complaints from customers who claimed that the firm was resorting to extreme and unethical methods to recover debts. Borrowers reported that the company utilized online platforms to harass them, including sending threatening messages not only to the customers but also to their family members and friends, exacerbating their distress.

Many individuals who had taken loans from the company found themselves overwhelmed with threats via social media and email, leaving them feeling trapped and vulnerable. The harassment reportedly extended well beyond the expected loan collection practices, raising questions about the legality and morality of such tactics.

The Operation: A Major Crackdown

The joint operation, spearheaded by the PAOCC and the PNP-ACG, led to the arrest of 252 individuals, including 35 supervisors of the lending firm. Among those apprehended were three foreign nationals—two Malaysians, one Chinese, and one Taiwanese—who were believed to be the masterminds behind the company's unlawful practices. As authorities investigate their legal status in the country, it is becoming clear that this operation was not just about tackling a single rogue company, but sending a strong message to the entire industry about the dangers of exploiting vulnerable borrowers.

The raid uncovered a disturbing network of intimidation and deception within the online lending sector, which has grown significantly in recent years. With the rise of digital platforms, these companies have found new ways to bypass traditional loan recovery methods, often resorting to threats and blackmail to get their money back.

Serious Charges: What’s Next for the Suspects?

The 35 supervisors of Golden Koi Lending Co. Inc. face charges under the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 (Republic Act No. 10175) for engaging in unlawful online activities, including cyber harassment and using digital platforms to spread threats. As for the foreign nationals, investigations into their legal status in the Philippines are underway, with authorities determined to hold them accountable for their roles in the operation.

The crackdown also serves as a reminder that online lending companies must comply with strict legal and ethical standards. In this case, Golden Koi Lending Co. Inc.'s extreme practices were not only illegal but also a direct violation of the public’s trust.

The Controversy: Vlogger’s Role Sparks Outcry

While the raid was an important step in curbing online lending abuses, it became embroiled in controversy when vlogger Rendon Labador live-streamed the operation, broadcasting the faces of the arrested suspects. This sparked outrage among legal and privacy advocates, who argued that Labador's actions violated the rights of the accused.

The PAOCC, which had not authorized Labador's involvement in the operation, issued a statement distancing itself from the vlogger's actions. The incident raised concerns about privacy, as well as the potential legal consequences for publicizing the identities of individuals before they are proven guilty in court. An investigation into the vlogger's conduct is ongoing.

The Bigger Picture: A Call for Stronger Regulation

This high-profile case shines a light on the need for stronger regulation in the online lending sector. As the industry continues to grow, it is crucial that lawmakers and regulators address the challenges posed by digital loan platforms. The Golden Koi Lending Co. Inc. scandal underscores the vulnerabilities of borrowers and the lengths some companies will go to in order to secure repayment, regardless of the means.

In response to growing concerns, government agencies are already pushing for more stringent regulations to ensure that online lending firms operate transparently and ethically. These measures will likely include stronger consumer protection laws, clearer guidelines for debt collection, and more rigorous oversight of online financial services.

A Step Forward in Protecting Borrowers

The crackdown on Golden Koi Lending Co. Inc. marks a decisive step toward safeguarding Filipino borrowers from the exploitative practices of online lending companies. As authorities continue to investigate the operation, it is clear that the fight against cybercrimes and online loan scams is far from over.

By taking swift action, the PAOCC and NBI have sent a clear message: the government is committed to protecting the public from predatory lenders and ensuring that online platforms remain a tool for financial assistance, not abuse.

In the coming months, as more cases like this unfold, we may see even stricter measures being adopted to regulate the industry, ensuring that borrowers can access credit without the threat of intimidation or harassment. This case also serves as a reminder to the public to remain vigilant and aware of their rights when engaging with online financial services, to avoid falling victim to these increasingly sophisticated scams.

As the digital age progresses, the need for robust online financial protections will only grow. For now, this landmark operation signals a growing recognition of the dangers posed by unscrupulous online lenders and a call to action for all stakeholders in the digital finance space to act responsibly and with integrity.

Janah Zaplan: From Pop Princess to Pilot — Soaring to New Heights

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Janah Zaplan, the rising star of ABS-CBN’s Star Music, has long been admired for her musical talents, but she’s now taking her aspirations to new heights—quite literally. After years of captivating audiences with her soulful voice, Janah has achieved something truly remarkable: she is now a licensed pilot. This milestone combines her dual passions for music and aviation, and her journey to this accomplishment is nothing short of inspiring.

A Star in the Music Scene

Before her aviation success, Janah was already well-established in the entertainment industry. As the “Millennial Pop Princess,” she made waves with her heartfelt ballads and uplifting tunes. One of her standout tracks, Sana Lagi Ay Pasko, earned her a nomination for Best Christmas Recording at the 33rd Awit Awards, showcasing her skill and emotional depth as a performer.

Janah’s passion for music didn’t end with Christmas songs—her more recent work shows her versatility as an artist. In 2023, she released Dancing On My Own, a catchy and empowering dance-pop anthem celebrating independence (MNLMag). The track resonated with listeners, reflecting her growing influence in the music world. Later that year, she dropped I LUV U, an empowering song about self-love and the importance of prioritizing oneself after difficult relationships.

A New Dream Takes Flight

Despite her success in music, Janah harbored a dream that went beyond the stage—she had always wanted to become a pilot. Driven by determination, she made the bold decision to pursue aviation. In May 2022, she enrolled at Air Link International Aviation College to study Bachelor of Science in Aviation Major in Flying, setting the stage for a new chapter in her life.

Balancing her music career with the rigorous demands of aviation school wasn’t an easy feat. However, Janah embraced the challenge with unwavering resolve. She shared her thoughts on the difficulty of flying a plane, saying, “It challenges my comfort zone knowing that it takes so much effort to fly a plane... I want to break the bias that women can do it too kasi kayang kaya”.

Her hard work paid off, as Janah recently graduated as a licensed pilot, marking a monumental milestone in her life. This achievement demonstrates her incredible ability to balance two worlds: music and aviation, and it proves that no dream is too big if you’re determined to reach for it.

Recognized for Excellence

Janah’s success in both her music and aviation pursuits has not gone unnoticed. In 2022, she was honored with the “Inspiring Star Pop Star Music PH Artist and Pilot Student of the Year” award at the World Class Excellence Japan Awards. This recognition celebrated her remarkable accomplishments and the dedication she has shown to both her career in music and her academic achievements.

Her commitment to excelling in both fields serves as an inspiration to countless individuals, particularly women aspiring to break through barriers in male-dominated industries like aviation.

Looking to the Future

With a bright future ahead of her, Janah Zaplan has demonstrated that there are no limits to what can be achieved when you pursue your dreams with passion and persistence. As a newly minted pilot, Janah is already soaring to new heights, but her musical journey continues as well. Her story serves as a testament to the power of ambition, hard work, and the courage to follow your heart, no matter how high the sky may seem.

Janah’s dual career as a pilot and a pop star is proof that there are no limits to the dreams you can chase. Whether she's performing on stage or flying a plane, Janah Zaplan is a true inspiration to anyone who dares to reach for the stars.

Tragic Mid-Air Collision in Washington, D.C.: PNP Officer Among 67 Fatalities

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

A catastrophic mid-air collision in Washington, D.C. has claimed the lives of all 67 passengers aboard a commercial airplane and a helicopter. Among the casualties was Police Colonel Pergentino N. Malabed Jr., a high-ranking officer of the Philippine National Police (PNP) who was in the U.S. on an official mission. His untimely passing has left not only his family but the entire Philippine law enforcement community in mourning.

Authorities have launched an extensive investigation to determine the cause of the collision, raising renewed concerns about aviation safety and mid-air traffic control.

A Dedicated Public Servant: Who Was Col. Pergentino Malabed Jr.?

Col. Pergentino N. Malabed Jr. was an esteemed officer of the PNP, serving as the Chief of the Logistics Plans and Programs Division of the Directorate for Logistics. At 51 years old, he was dedicated to enhancing the PNP's logistical operations, ensuring that Philippine law enforcement had the necessary resources to perform their duties effectively.

He was in the U.S. to inspect all-purpose vests purchased for the PNP, a crucial mission aimed at improving the protective gear used by Filipino police officers in the line of duty. His commitment to ensuring the safety of his fellow officers made him a respected figure within the police force.

Born on February 18, 1973, Col. Malabed was a proud graduate of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) Class of 1998, where he earned a degree in Public Safety. His tragic passing has been met with an outpouring of grief from colleagues, who describe him as a dedicated leader, a family man, and a selfless public servant.

The PNP has assured that all efforts are being made to bring his remains back to the Philippines. His family is being assisted in traveling to the U.S. to arrange for his repatriation, ensuring he is given the honors he rightfully deserves.

The Fatal Collision: What Happened?

Authorities in Washington, D.C., confirmed that the accident involved a commercial airplane and a helicopter that collided mid-air, leaving no survivors. The exact cause of the collision remains under investigation, but initial reports suggest that it could have been due to air traffic miscommunication, pilot error, or mechanical failure.

According to aviation experts, mid-air collisions—though rare—can happen when multiple aircraft share the same airspace without adequate separation or when miscalculations occur during landing or takeoff sequences. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are now leading a full-scale probe into the incident.

This tragedy has reignited discussions about aviation safety, air traffic control efficiency, and the necessity of stricter flight monitoring protocols.

PNP and Nation Mourn a Fallen Officer

The news of Col. Malabed’s passing has deeply affected the Philippine National Police, where he was regarded as a committed and hardworking officer. In a statement, PBGen. Neri Vincent D. Ignacio, Officer-In-Charge of the PNP Directorate for Logistics, expressed his condolences:

"Col. Malabed’s untimely passing is a great loss to our ranks. He was a leader who dedicated his life to serving the country, ensuring that our officers had the necessary equipment to perform their duties. His commitment and integrity will never be forgotten."

As part of their support to the bereaved family, the PNP has mobilized resources to assist in bringing his remains home. Plans are already underway to give him a hero’s welcome and a fitting tribute in recognition of his service.

The Importance of Aviation Safety

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with air travel. Although aviation remains one of the safest modes of transportation, accidents like this highlight the importance of continuous improvements in safety measures, better air traffic management, and enhanced pilot training.

A similar aviation scare occurred in September 2024, when two Delta Airlines planes collided while taxiing at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta. Fortunately, there were no fatalities, but the incident disrupted flights and raised concerns about airport safety and air traffic congestion.

With increasing numbers of flights worldwide, air safety protocols must evolve to prevent future disasters. Authorities must take this incident as a wake-up call to ensure stricter regulations, improved pilot coordination, and better flight safety technologies.

A Nation Grieves

For Filipinos, the loss of Col. Pergentino Malabed Jr. is especially heartbreaking. He was not just a passenger in the ill-fated flight—he was a man on a mission, working to protect and serve his fellow officers back home. His passing is a tragic reminder of the sacrifices that law enforcement officers make, even beyond their country’s borders.

As investigations into this devastating accident continue, the world mourns the loss of 67 lives, and the Philippines remembers a hero who died in the line of duty.

May Col. Pergentino Malabed Jr. and all those who perished in this tragedy rest in peace, and may their families find comfort in the outpouring of prayers and support from across the globe.