mikee agustin biography: age, career, husband and scam

Introduction

In late 2023, toy collector Yexel Sebastian and his partner Mikee Agustin came under fire after over 100 investors accused the couple of running a ₱200 million investment scam through their company Salex Group. Sebastian and Agustin are alleged to have solicited funds from victims by promising generous monthly returns between 3-5% on investments in Salex Group starting in 2020. However, payments abruptly ceased in late 2021 despite victims’ inquiries, leading to accusations of fraud. This in-depth analysis will examine the key details of the case based on available reviews and complaints.

Background of Sebastian and Agustin

Yexel Sebastian rose to prominence in the Philippines as a toy collector with a large social media following. He also previously worked as a talent for TV shows. Mikee Agustin is a former member of the popular Filipino girl group GirlTrends known for hits in the early 2010s. After pursuing hosting and acting, she partnered with Sebastian in businesses like their events firm Salex Group. Both leveraged their public profiles and connections within the entertainment industry to promote their companies.

Details of the Alleged Scam

As previously mentioned in a blog post, victims reported Sebastian and Agustin solicited investments in Salex Group starting in 2020 with a minimum of ₱1-200 million and promises of 3-5% monthly interest returns. Investors were paid as agreed for over a year to gain their trust before payments abruptly stopped in late 2021 despite inquiries. It’s estimated the couple scammed over ₱200 million total from at least 100 victims.

Response from Sebastian and Agustin

In an interview with Senator Raffy Tulfo, who hosts a consumer complaints program, Sebastian denied any involvement in fraudulent activities and claimed to also be a victim. However, his story lacked credibility as both he and Agustin fled to Japan in late 2023 right as legal issues against them escalated. As discussed in a previous analysis, their sudden departure raised strong suspicions of guilt rather than perpetuating claims of innocence.

Signs of an Investment Scam

There are several textbook signs consumers can watch out for to identify possible investment scams like the one Sebastian and Agustin are accused of running:

• Unrealistic returns – Promises of high returns like 3-5% monthly are unsustainable long-term and a major red flag.

• Pressure to invest quickly – Scammers create urgency to bypass proper vetting and due diligence.

• No track record – Legitimate firms transparently disclose past performance statistics.

• Evasive on documents – Scammers dodge providing registration proof, financial statements etc.

• Complex strategies – Simple investment products are easier for the public to understand risks.

• No risk discussion – Refusal to explain possible loss scenarios implies deception.

As explored in a previous blog post, diligently researching for these warning signs is key to avoiding financial ruin.

How to Research Investment Opportunities

When exploring potential investments, taking specific precautions can help weed out opportunistic scammers according to guidelines from past articles:

• Verify credentials – Check registration status with regulatory bodies.

• Review complaints – Search online sources for any lawsuits or sanction records.

• Independently fact-check claims – Don’t solely rely on promotional materials.

• Consult registered professionals – Get expert guidance on due diligence process.

• Confirm affiliations – Validate claimed partnerships, awards through official channels.

• Manage risk exposure – Diversify funds across a variety of opportunities.

Thorough research saves consumers from avoidable harm like what victims of Yexel Sebastian and Mikee Agustin are currently experiencing.

Details of the SEC Investigation

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of the Philippines revoked any investment licenses held by Sebastian or related to Salex Group following complaints in late 2021. A formal investigation was launched against the couple estimated to involve over ₱200 million stolen from harmed investors. The SEC is collaborating with law enforcement to potentially file criminal fraud charges and recover lost funds.

Damage to Reputations

Both Sebastian and Agustin previously relied on trust from their public platforms and industry ties to promote ventures. However, the investment scam accusations have understandably strained their credibility even if the legal process remains ongoing. As discussed in an article, regaining positive fame will be an uphill task requiring transparency and accountability moving forward regardless of the final ruling. Their reputational losses serve as a cautionary reminder of the importance for influencers to properly vet financial promotions.

Lessons Moving Ahead

While the full implications of this alleged investment scam case remain to be seen through pending court actions, there are valuable lessons consumers and businesses can draw from the ordeal of victims:

• Thoroughly research any individual/company before investing significant funds

• Treat extraordinary returns claims with utmost skepticism instead of enticement

• Consult accredited experts who can vet opportunities independently

• Don’t be pressured by promotion strategies focused on hype over substance

• Transparency builds trustworthiness while evasiveness invites doubt

With diligent due diligence guided by insights from this analysis and past relevant articles, individuals stand a better chance of making wise financial decisions and avoiding similar heartaches. Only time will tell the final outcome of the Yexel Sebastian and Mikee Agustin matter specifically.