MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has vowed to pursue strong criminal charges against perpetrators following the rescue of 18 minors in three separate operations conducted on Feb. 18 and 19.
The operations were carried out by the PNP’s Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC) as part of its intensified campaign against online child sexual abuse and trafficking in persons.
Authorities arrested a Filipina suspect in Abuyog, Leyte on Feb. 19 in connection with a case referral linked to the earlier arrest of a 50-year-old Norwegian national for possession of child sexual abuse materials. Forensic examination of the foreign suspect’s mobile device revealed online communications, explicit content, and financial transactions connected to a local contact.
Seven children were rescued in Leyte, where authorities also seized mobile phones, a tablet, and explicit video files involving minors.
On Feb. 19, WCPC operatives rescued one female minor in Cagayan de Oro City following a referral from the Philippine Internet Crimes Against Children Center, in coordination with international law enforcement partners and local police and social welfare units.
In a separate operation in Tanauan City, Batangas, WCPC personnel and local police, working closely with the City Social Welfare and Development Office, rescued 10 minors believed to be victims of trafficking.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the safety and recovery of victims remain the top priority.
“We ensure that rescued children are immediately placed under proper care. At the same time, we build strong cases against perpetrators,” he said.
All rescued minors are now under protective custody for psychosocial assessment and continued care.|
