BUTUAN CITY(November 14) – Four minors, including an eight-month-old baby boy, were rescued from online sexual exploitation in Bayabas, Surigao del Sur, following a police operation earlier this week.
Authorities said Leonila Talikig Trangia was arrested in the Tuesday night operation led by the PNP Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC).
“The operation stemmed from a referral by the Philippine Internet Crimes Against Children Center and the UK’s National Crime Agency,” the WCPC said in its report.
Police said Trangia allegedly used the children to produce and sell child sexual abuse materials online.
The victims — one girl, two other children, and the infant — are now under the care of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office for assessment and counseling.
Brig. Gen. Maria Sheila Portento, acting WCPC chief, vowed continued crackdowns on online child abuse.
“We will not stop pursuing those who exploit the vulnerable. Protecting children remains our top priority,” she said.
Trangia faces charges under the Anti-OSAEC (Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children) Act, which carries penalties of up to life imprisonment.
