CEBU CITY, Philippines — A 24-year-old woman is now facing estafa charges after allegedly defrauding an American man of over ₱1.5 million in what investigators are calling a “classic love scam.”
Jhea Ramos Jualo, a resident of Maasin City, Leyte, was arrested by agents of the National Bureau of Investigation–Cebu District Office (NBI-Cebdo) in an entrapment operation at a coffee shop in Mandaue City on April 24.
The charges were formally filed against her on Monday, April 28.
According to the complaint, the victim — identified only as “Paul” — accused Jualo of deceiving him into a fake romantic relationship to solicit large amounts of money. Authorities say Jualo had already siphoned off at least ₱1.5 million in cash, aside from additional valuables such as a laptop and jewelry, all purchased by the victim.
Investigators believe the case fits the profile of a targeted love scam, where a victim is emotionally manipulated for financial gain. NBI officials are continuing their investigation and warn the public to be cautious of online relationships, especially those involving money transfers.
Jualo is now under custody, pending further legal proceedings.
