Three individuals have been apprehended for their involvement in selling counterfeit movie passes online for the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), according to a report by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Sunday. The three suspects are now facing charges of estafa through falsification of public documents under the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 (Republic Act 10175).
In an official statement, the MMDA, which organizes the film festival, revealed that it sought the assistance of the Quezon City Police “District-District” Special Operations Unit to set up an entrapment operation. The operation involved one of the suspects meeting with an undercover police officer posing as a buyer on December 14 in Quezon City. The purchased ticket was later confirmed by the MMFF secretariat to be counterfeit.
During the interrogation of the arrested suspect, the identity of his accomplices was revealed. A second suspect was subsequently apprehended, and through further investigation, the source of the fake tickets was identified. In total, 40 counterfeit tickets were confiscated, with a total of 46 tickets illegally sold through Facebook at prices ranging from P1,300 to P1,500 each, as stated by the MMDA.
The MMDA issued a stern warning, stating that anyone caught selling or purchasing complimentary tickets would face legal consequences in accordance with the law. The agency emphasized its commitment to ensuring the integrity of the MMFF and preventing fraudulent activities that could undermine the festival’s reputation.
The MMFF is a highly anticipated cinema event that has become a cherished tradition for many Filipino families. This year, the festival featured a record-breaking 10 entries, two more than the usual number. The lineup includes films such as “Family of Two,” “(K)Ampon,” “Penduko,” “Rewind,” “Becky and Badette,” “Broken Heart’s Trip,” “Firefly,” “GomBurZa,” “Mallari,” and “When I Met You in Tokyo.”
Starting from Christmas Day, the films will be screened nationwide until January 7, giving audiences ample time to enjoy the diverse range of movies on offer. The MMFF serves as a platform for local filmmakers to showcase their talent and creativity, contributing to the growth and development of the Philippine film industry.
The recent incident of selling fake movie passes highlights the importance of vigilance and caution when purchasing tickets, particularly through online platforms. It serves as a reminder for moviegoers to verify the authenticity of tickets and to only purchase from authorized sellers or reputable sources.
The MMDA’s swift action in apprehending the suspects demonstrates their commitment to ensuring a fair and secure MMFF experience for all attendees. By collaborating with law enforcement agencies, they were able to effectively address the issue and protect the interests of both the festival and the moviegoers.
In conclusion, the arrest of three individuals involved in selling fake movie passes for the Metro Manila Film Festival sends a strong message that fraudulent activities will not be tolerated. The MMDA’s efforts to combat such illegal practices contribute to the overall success and integrity of the festival. As movie enthusiasts eagerly await the screening of this year’s MMFF entries, it is crucial to remain vigilant and support the legitimate channels for ticket purchases to ensure an enjoyable and authentic cinema experience.
Source: The Manila Times
