Bacolod City, Philippines – 22 April 2025

In light of recent developments concerning the Philippine GUARDIANS Brotherhood, Inc. (PGBI), it has been recommended that the so-called PGBI Victorias City Chapter collaborate with the legitimate PGBI National Headquarters under the leadership of GS MEL. Should they choose not to comply, they must cease using the PGBI name and its Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) registration. In turn, the Victorias City Council is urged to take measures to discredit this illegitimate chapter.

The SEC has once again clarified the registration status of both the PGBI Victorias Chapter and the PGBI – Victorias City Chapter. They emphasized that only the PGBI National Headquarters has the authority to grant accreditation to local chapters, not the individual local organizations themselves.

In a recent letter to Mr. Audie Malaga, SP Member of the City of Victorias, Atty. Annabelle Corral-Respall, Director II of the SEC Bacolod Extension Office, confirmed that neither the Victorias Chapter nor the Victorias City Chapter is recognized as a validly registered entity with the SEC. Their accreditation falls under the purview of the national organization, meaning local chapters like those in Victorias do not have independent SEC accreditation. Verification regarding their status must come from the National Headquarters.

Following a comprehensive verification with the PGBI National Headquarters, under the leadership of Engr. Melliardine “GS MEL” G. Gamet, the PGBI Victorias Chapter, headed by Joemarie “FGGF JOMA” De Leon Guanzon, has been confirmed as the legitimate chapter, as evidenced by its accreditation certificate (see below). In contrast, the Victorias City Chapter does not possess this legitimacy.

The SEC has confirmed, for the second time, that the actual date of registration for the corporation is July 30, 2022, with the documents being filed on September 19, 2022. The General Information Sheet names Engr. Melliardine “GS MEL” G. Gamet as the appointed President/Chief Executive Officer of the corporation.

Furthermore, a Panlalawigan Councilor from the Victorias Chapter recently encouraged the chapter’s founders to secure a Certification of SEC Accreditation. This highlights the importance of identifying the recognized legal holder of the organization’s registration and aligning local operations with the national body’s guidelines.

The SEC’s emphasis on verifying the legitimacy of PGBI chapters arises amid concerns regarding unaccredited factions unlawfully using the PGBI’s SEC registration details. Given the risks associated with these unauthorized groups, the SEC advises individuals to verify the authenticity of any PGBI organization prior to engagement.

“This reiteration serves as an important reminder that while local chapters play a vital role in the operations of organizations like the PGBI, their authority and accreditation ultimately derive from the national level,” stated an SEC spokesperson. “Anyone seeking to participate in local chapters should prioritize verifying their legitimacy.”

To prevent misunderstandings and safeguard members and interested stakeholders, the SEC encourages individuals to consult the PGBI National Headquarters for confirmation of local chapter status. Those wishing to clarify the legitimacy of their affiliations are advised to contact the national body. Interested parties can verify the accreditation status of any PGBI chapter by emailing the National Headquarters at pgbinationalheadquarters@gmail.com.

The PGBI is a civic-minded organization focused on community service, brotherhood, and leadership development. With chapters throughout various regions of the Philippines, it plays an essential role in local civil society. However, the SEC’s guidance underscores the necessity for a cohesive national framework, ensuring all local chapters conform to the standards set by the organization’s national headquarters.

As community members and citizens aim to engage with the PGBI Victorias Chapters, they are encouraged to approach the PGBI National Headquarters for accurate details regarding membership, activities, and governance.

Moreover, the SEC advises current members and potential recruits to ascertain the legitimacy of any local chapter activities and affiliations via official channels to mitigate future complications.

For additional inquiries, individuals can contact the SEC or visit the official PGBI National Headquarters website to gain a clearer understanding of the organization’s structure and functions. – GSM