Police in Magsaysay town, Occidental Mindoro are warning residents about a new extortion scheme where criminals impersonate NPA communist rebels to demand money from unsuspecting victims.

According to a public advisory issued by the Magsaysay Police Station, scammers have been calling residents and falsely identifying themselves as members of the New People’s Army (NPA), threatening harm if victims refuse to pay “revolutionary taxes” or tribute money.

The fraudulent calls follow a consistent pattern, with callers claiming NPA membership and making threats against potential victims who refuse to comply with their demands for cash payments.

Police officials condemned the criminal activity, describing it as particularly harmful to people in Mindoro.

Police said that such tactics exploit residents’ fears while falsely invoking the name of the armed group.

“We strongly urge our fellow residents of Mindoro, particularly here in Magsaysay, to be vigilant and not be deceived by these extortionists,” the police statement read.

PNP authorities are encouraging anyone who receives such calls to immediately report the incidents to nearby police and military units.

The police station has assured residents they are prepared to receive complaints and respond at any time assistance is needed.

“Once we receive a report, we will immediately respond, arrest and file appropriate charges against those committing these crimes,” police said.

The police provided their official mobile number 09985985838 for residents to report incidents via text message or phone call.

Extortion schemes impersonating rebel groups have been reported in various provinces across the country, with criminals exploiting public awareness of insurgent activities to intimidate victims into paying money.

The NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, has been waging a decades-long insurgency against the government.

However, legitimate rebel units do not typically conduct operations through random phone calls to private citizens.