MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) is preparing to file charges against individuals responsible for the unauthorized release of personal information of investigators from the Office of the Ombudsman.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the Anti-Cybercrime Group has been tasked to investigate the breach, identify suspects, and build cases for prosecution.
He emphasized that the incident is being treated with urgency due to the potential danger posed to the affected personnel.
“We take this matter seriously, especially since it involves the security of individuals engaged in investigations and intelligence work,” Nartatez said in a Monday statement.
He assured that the PNP will pursue all leads to ensure accountability and justice.
The Ombudsman has strongly condemned the leak, calling it a deliberate act that could intimidate its investigators and expose them to harm. It also described the breach as an attack on the safety of government workers.
Authorities are also examining whether there was any internal participation in the data leak as part of the cyber investigation.
Nartatez said possible charges include violations of the Data Privacy Act and the Anti-Cybercrime Prevention Act. He also pledged continued protection for public officials and employees under threat.
Once evidence is established, appropriate cases will be filed against those involved, he added.
ia/xf
