NBI cracks down on illegal song downloads

By Tina Santos - Philippine Daily Inquirer


MANILA, Philippines -- The National Bureau of Investigation seized P2 million-worth of computer sets allegedly used in the illegal downloading of copyrighted songs during a raid in Mandaluyong recently.

Armed with search warrants issued by Manila Regional Trial Court Executive Judge Reynaldo Ros, bureau agents raided the main office of Power Mac Center Inc. at Unit C437, Cyberzone SM Megamall Building B, Mandaluyong City.

Power Mac Center Inc. reportedly has seven outlets strategically located in major malls in Metro Manila, the NBI said.

Seized from the establishment were several computer units and accessories used in illegal downloading of copyrighted songs in MP3 format.

The NBI said the raids stemmed from complaints filed by major record labels like Sony BMG Music Entertainment Philippine Inc., EMI Phils. Inc., Warner Music Philippines, and MCA Records Inc., which are engaged in and classified by law as "producers of sound recordings" of known foreign and local artists.

Owners of the establishment face charges of violating the Intellectual Property Code, the NBI added.