NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Korean Fugitive Posing As Pinoy Nabbed In Pangasinan Over Voice Phishing Scam
Photo credit: BI
A Korean fugitive who allegedly masterminded a massive voice phishing operation worth $840,000 was arrested in Pangasinan — after reportedly hiding in plain sight and even posing as a Filipino.
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) confirmed the arrest as part of the government’s intensified crackdown on transnational crime, in line with the directive of Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to protect the country’s borders and legal system from abuse.
Arrest in Pangasinan
The BI’s Fugitive Search Unit swooped down on Barangay Palamis in Alaminos City on February 26, leading to the arrest of 40-year-old Korean national Moon Hayoung.
Authorities said the operation was conducted in coordination with Korean authorities, the Alaminos City Police Station, and other intelligence units — a joint effort that finally caught up with the suspect.
Moon is the subject of an Interpol Red Notice following an arrest warrant issued by the Suwon District Court for fraud. He is accused of violating Article 347(1) of Korea’s Criminal Act.
The Alleged “Boss” of a Voice Phishing Ring
According to reports, Moon allegedly set up voice phishing operations as early as January 2017. Members of the group reportedly posed as representatives of a major bank in Korea to trick victims into handing over money.
Authorities estimate the total amount defrauded reached around USD 840,000.
Investigators tagged Moon as the boss of the syndicate — the one who organized the group, financed its operations, and established the facilities used to carry out the scam.
Fake Identity, PH Passport
But that’s not all.
During the arrest, authorities discovered that Moon was carrying a fraudulently obtained Philippine passport under the name “Jonathan Martinez Park.” Reports also revealed he allegedly owns several resort properties in Batangas and Pangasinan — raising further questions about how long he had been operating in the country.
BI Sends Strong Warning
Following the arrest, BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado did not mince words.
“Foreigners who use false identities to evade arrest will face the full force of the law. We will not allow anyone to abuse our hospitality, exploit our legal systems, or take advantage of the privileges extended to legitimate visitors.”
The Commissioner also commended the Fugitive Search Unit and partner agencies for the successful operation, stressing that the Bureau remains relentless in safeguarding national security and upholding the rule of law.
For now, Moon is detained at the BI Warden’s Facility while deportation proceedings are underway.
Another reminder, authorities say, that the Philippines is no haven for fugitives on the run.
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) confirmed the arrest as part of the government’s intensified crackdown on transnational crime, in line with the directive of Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to protect the country’s borders and legal system from abuse.
Arrest in Pangasinan
The BI’s Fugitive Search Unit swooped down on Barangay Palamis in Alaminos City on February 26, leading to the arrest of 40-year-old Korean national Moon Hayoung.
Authorities said the operation was conducted in coordination with Korean authorities, the Alaminos City Police Station, and other intelligence units — a joint effort that finally caught up with the suspect.
Moon is the subject of an Interpol Red Notice following an arrest warrant issued by the Suwon District Court for fraud. He is accused of violating Article 347(1) of Korea’s Criminal Act.
The Alleged “Boss” of a Voice Phishing Ring
According to reports, Moon allegedly set up voice phishing operations as early as January 2017. Members of the group reportedly posed as representatives of a major bank in Korea to trick victims into handing over money.
Authorities estimate the total amount defrauded reached around USD 840,000.
Investigators tagged Moon as the boss of the syndicate — the one who organized the group, financed its operations, and established the facilities used to carry out the scam.
Fake Identity, PH Passport
But that’s not all.
During the arrest, authorities discovered that Moon was carrying a fraudulently obtained Philippine passport under the name “Jonathan Martinez Park.” Reports also revealed he allegedly owns several resort properties in Batangas and Pangasinan — raising further questions about how long he had been operating in the country.
BI Sends Strong Warning
Following the arrest, BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado did not mince words.
“Foreigners who use false identities to evade arrest will face the full force of the law. We will not allow anyone to abuse our hospitality, exploit our legal systems, or take advantage of the privileges extended to legitimate visitors.”
The Commissioner also commended the Fugitive Search Unit and partner agencies for the successful operation, stressing that the Bureau remains relentless in safeguarding national security and upholding the rule of law.
For now, Moon is detained at the BI Warden’s Facility while deportation proceedings are underway.
Another reminder, authorities say, that the Philippines is no haven for fugitives on the run.
Mar 5, 2026
We are dedicated storytellers with a passion for bringing your brand to life. Our services range from news and media features to brand promotion and collaborations.
Interested? Visit our
Contact Us page for more information. To learn more about what we offer, check out our latest article on services and opportunities.
