The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has filed a criminal complaint against the so-called “Maharlika” group for allegedly running an illegal investment scheme based on false claims of the Marcos family’s hidden gold wealth. The complaint was lodged on March 30, 2026, before the Office of the City Prosecutor in Santa Rosa, Laguna.

The SEC identified the group as the Royal Kingdom of Maharlika Pearl of the Orient Organization Inc. (RKOM) and its armed wing, the Royal Vanguard Transnational Intelligence Group Inc. 

According to the agency, the organizations and their leaders violated the Securities Regulation Code (SRC), the Financial Products and Services Consumer Protection Act (FCPA), and the Cybercrime Prevention Act by soliciting investments without registration and spreading false claims.

Authorities revealed that the group, led by Rolando Rhey Kipte Villar who calls himself “Supremo,” sold so-called “Yellow” and “Green” cards priced between ₱200 and ₱5,500.

These cards allegedly promised lifetime benefits ranging from ₱100,000 to ₱5 million once Villar was proclaimed “King of the Philippines.” Victims were also told they would share in the supposed Marcos wealth and earn 2% returns from a fictitious “Mother Account” holding gold and warrants.

The SEC stressed that these promises were fraudulent and designed to lure unsuspecting investors. The agency reminded the public that only registered securities and licensed entities are authorized to solicit investments in the Philippines. It also warned against schemes that promise unrealistic returns or rely on unverifiable historical claims, such as the alleged Marcos gold.

The complaint against RKOM and its affiliates is part of the SEC’s intensified crackdown on investment scams, which have proliferated in recent years through social media and community networks. Officials emphasized that scams exploiting historical myths and nationalist sentiments are particularly dangerous because they prey on trust and patriotism.

This case highlights the importance of vigilance among Filipino investors. The SEC urged the public to verify the legitimacy of investment opportunities by checking its official website and advisories. It also encouraged victims of the “Maharlika” scam to come forward and cooperate with authorities to strengthen the case.

The filing of charges against the group underscores the government’s commitment to protecting consumers from fraudulent schemes and ensuring accountability for those who exploit vulnerable communities. For now, the SEC’s move serves as a strong warning that claims of hidden Marcos gold remain a recurring scam tactic and should be treated with extreme caution. 

Image from Jeric Jee J. Javillonar