By I. Inojales | 05:33 PM October 19, 2025
TAGBILARAN CITY — Police authorities arrested a group of men posing as representatives of SM Mall in an alleged scam operation in the city.
According to Tagbilaran City Police Chief Lt. Col. John Kareen Escober, the suspects were apprehended following a tip from a concerned citizen who reported their suspicious activities.
Mayor Jane Yap identified the group’s alleged leader as Raymund Godinez, who claimed to be a “General Foreman” of SM, along with seven others who introduced themselves as construction workers. However, upon verification with SM management, their identities were found to be fake and not connected to the company in any way.
“These individuals are not from Bohol, and their real purpose in the city remains unknown,” Yap said on Facebook. She also posted photos of the suspects on her official page to warn the public against possible scams.
Yap expressed gratitude to the vigilant citizen who immediately alerted the authorities, and to Escober and his team for their swift action leading to the arrest of the suspects.
The mayor urged residents to remain cautious and to report any suspicious individuals or groups through TAGBILARAN 911 or directly to the Tagbilaran City Police Station.
“It’s better to be alert than to regret later. Especially now that the Christmas season is approaching, various scams may arise,” Yap reminded.
