TAGUM CITY (October 30) — The Philippine National Police–Women and Children Protection Center (PNP-WCPC) rescued two trafficking victims and arrested a male suspect in an anti–online sexual exploitation operation here on Oct. 14.
Authorities rescued an adult woman and a minor boy after serving a warrant to search, seize, and examine computer data, leading to the discovery of digital devices containing child sexual abuse and exploitation materials (CSAEM).
Police said the suspect used social media to recruit and coerce minors to perform sexual acts online in exchange for money. He now faces charges for violating the Anti-OSAEC and Anti-CSAEM Act of 2022 (RA 11930) and the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse Act (RA 7610), which carry penalties of up to life imprisonment.
The rescued victims are now under the care of the Tagum City Social Welfare and Development Office for assessment and counseling.
WCPC acting chief BGen. Maria Shiela Portento reaffirmed the unit’s commitment to pursue predators exploiting children both online and offline, urging the public to report incidents through the WCPC’s official Facebook page.
