TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte — The Philippine National Police–Women and Children Protection Center (PNP-WCPC), in its relentless campaign to combat trafficking in persons, conducted a rescue operation and implemented a warrant to search, seize, and examine computer data on Oct. 14, 2025.
The operation led to the rescue of two victims – one adult female and one minor male and the arrest of a male suspect for Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM). This effort forms part of the WCPC’s intensified campaign to dismantle OSAEC networks and protect children and vulnerable individuals from online sexual predators.
During the WSSECD implementation, authorities discovered multiple digital devices owned by the suspect. A forensic examination of his mobile phone revealed several files, which directly linked him to the production and possession of illegal sexual exploitation materials involving minors.
Initial investigation disclosed that the suspect used social media platforms to offer minors for sexual exploitation in exchange for money, coercing children to perform or participate in the production and online distribution of CSAEM.
The rescued victims were promptly turned over to the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO)–Tagum City for assessment, counseling, and psychosocial intervention.
Meanwhile, the arrested suspect is facing charges for violation of Republic Act No. 11930 (Anti-OSAEC and Anti-CSAEM Act of 2022), which penalizes the production, possession, or distribution of CSAEM with life imprisonment and a fine of up to ₱5,000,000, depending on the gravity of the offense and Republic Act No. 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act), which imposes harsher penalties for acts involving child sexual abuse and exploitation.
The successful operation was jointly conducted by elements of the PNP WCPC-MFU, led by PCol Mario M. Baquiran Jr, chief, MFU, under the overall supervision of BGen. Maria Shiela T. Portento, acting WCPC chief, in coordination with partner agencies.
In a statement, Portento emphasized that they are committed to pursuing those who exploit and abuse children both online and offline. She highlighted that the WCPC will continue to investigate and prosecute perpetrators of OSAEC and CSAEM, ensuring that justice is served.
The WCPC continues to operate a 24/7 official Facebook page where the public may report incidents of online sexual abuse and exploitation of children. Individuals with information that may aid in rescue operations or investigations are urged to contact the PNP Women and Children Protection Center through: https://www.facebook.com/wcpc.didmpnp.
