Soccskargen: The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority in the Soccsksargen Region (TESDA-12) has issued a warning to the public about National Certificates (NCs) being fraudulently sold online, labeling them as false and deceptive.

According to Philippines News Agency, TESDA-12 Regional Director Jerry Tizon emphasized in a radio interview that these online claims of NCs for sale are "big fake news" and urged the public not to be misled by promises that these certificates could be used for employment opportunities.

Tizon pointed out that with the advent of TESDA's Electronic National Certificates (e-NC), any certificates purchased online would not be recognized. The legitimate certificates now include security features such as a QR code, which employers and users can scan to verify authenticity.

He also mentioned that they are working closely with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and provincial offices to dismantle the operations involved in selling these fake NCs. Tizon encouraged the public to report any incidents of NCs being sold to TESDA regional or provincial offices, so they can take appropriate measures to safeguard the public.