Cebu Pacific has stepped up its campaign against airline ticket fraud by partnering with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to identify and pursue unauthorized sellers who have been using fraudulent or stolen credit cards to book and illegally resell flights. The airline said the initiative is part of its broader effort to protect passengers from scams that have proliferated on social media and other unofficial booking channels.
In coordination with the NBI, Cebu Pacific is also working closely with other government agencies, including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB), to raise public awareness about the dangers of booking flights through unauthorized sellers. These agencies are helping reinforce advisories warning consumers to transact only with legitimate and accredited booking platforms.
According to Cebu Pacific, investigations conducted alongside its partner banks confirmed that certain individuals used stolen or fraudulent credit cards to purchase airline tickets. These bookings were later converted into Cebu Pacific Travel Funds, which were then resold illegally to passengers through unofficial channels, often at prices that appeared significantly lower than regular fares. While such offers may seem appealing, the airline emphasized that these transactions are unlawful and ultimately disadvantage travelers.
As a result of these findings, Cebu Pacific has cancelled bookings that were confirmed to have been paid for using fraudulent or stolen credit cards. Passengers affected by these cancellations have already received notifications from the airline. Cebu Pacific advised these travelers to rebook their flights directly through its official website, www.cebupacificair.com, using a valid and authorized form of payment, should they wish to continue with their travel plans.
In a significant development, several Facebook groups linked to the illegal resale of Cebu Pacific flights have been taken down. The airline identified the following groups as having booked flights for passengers using fraudulent credit cards:
- Cebu Pacific Refund – https://www.facebook.com/groups/426610031927684
- Cebu Pacific Travel Fund (For Sale) – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1016560490256609
- Cebu Pacific Air – https://www.facebook.com/groups/CebuPacificAirPh
- CEBU PACIFIC PISO FARE//PROMO TICKET//LOW FARE – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1271257087394124/
Cebu Pacific welcomed the removal of these groups, noting that it helps prevent further victimization of passengers who may unknowingly purchase tickets from unauthorized sellers. The airline stressed that bookings made through such channels carry serious risks, including sudden cancellations, denial of boarding, and the loss of funds with little chance of recovery.
The airline also warned that unauthorized sellers typically operate without accountability. When issues arise, such as booking cancellations or invalid tickets, passengers often have no way to contact these sellers or recover their payments. Cebu Pacific reiterated that it cannot guarantee, honor, or provide support for bookings made outside its official and accredited platforms.
To ensure a safe and secure booking experience, Cebu Pacific strongly reminded all passengers to book flights only through its official website, mobile app, or accredited travel partners. Doing so guarantees access to legitimate promotions, valid Travel Funds, and reliable customer support.
Passengers may book flights directly by visiting www.cebupacificair.com or by downloading the official Cebu Pacific mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The airline emphasized that vigilance and informed booking choices are key to avoiding fraud and ensuring a smooth travel experience.