In a strong demonstration of commitment to eradicating Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC), the Women and Children Protection Center-Mindanao Field Unit (WCPC-MFU) Aleng Pulis, under the leadership of PLtCol Mario M. Baquiran Jr., conducted back-to-back rescue operations on August 23 and 24, 2024, leading to the arrest of multiple suspects and the rescue of several victims.
On August 23, 2024, at approximately 2:45 PM, WCPC-MFU Aleng Pulis operatives arrested two individuals in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte. The two male suspects, “Jonny” and “Jack”, who were apprehended during a coordinated entrapment and rescue operation, were found to be involved in the online sexual exploitation of children. The operation, supported by the Region 10 Anti-Trafficking Task Force and the International Justice Mission (IJM), resulted in the rescue of three victims: one male minor, one male adult, and one child at risk. These suspects were identified through extensive online surveillance and cyber patrolling conducted by the Internet Crime Against Children Investigators of WCPC-MFU.
The following day, on August 24, 2024, at around 7:34 AM, another operation was carried out in the same city. Under the continued leadership of PLtCol Baquiran Jr., joint elements from WCPC-MFU conducted a rescue operation and implemented a Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data (WSSECD), which also led to the arrest of suspect “Macky.” This operation, which involved the Iligan City Task Force Against OSAEC, Region 10 Anti-Cybercrime Unit, DSWD Region 10, CSWDO-Iligan City, and Region 10 Anti-Trafficking Task Force, and was again supported by IJM, led to the rescue of two children at risk and two online victims, one of whom is a minor. Digital forensic examination of the suspect’s devices revealed possession of Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Materials (CSAEM), resulting in the suspect’s arrest under RA 11930, or the Anti-OSAEC and Anti-CSAEM Act.
PLtCol Mario M. Baquiran Jr. emphasized the significance of these operations, stating, "These back-to-back operations are a testament to our unwavering commitment to protecting our children from the horrors of online exploitation. We will continue to pursue justice relentlessly and ensure that every child is safe from such predators."
PBGEN Portia B. Manalad, Chief of WCPC, lauded the successful operations and emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, "The fight against OSAEC requires the combined efforts of government agencies, civil society, and the public. Our coordinated actions in these operations demonstrate the power of collaboration in safeguarding our children."
Barbara Mae Flores, OIC Executive Director of NCC-OSAEC-CSAEM, highlighted the importance of continuous efforts and collaboration: "These operations reflect the relentless dedication of our law enforcement agencies to combat OSAEC. The successful rescue of these victims underscores the critical need for ongoing training, capacity building, and inter-agency cooperation. We are committed to providing all necessary support to ensure that these predators are brought to justice and that the victims receive the care they deserve."
USec Nicholas Felix Ty, USEC-in-Charge for IACAT and NCC-OSAEC-CSAEM, praised the swift and decisive actions taken by the operatives, stating, "The President has made it clear that the eradication of OSAEC is a national priority, and these operations are a clear demonstration of our collective commitment to this cause. The dedication of the WCPC-MFU Aleng Pulis and our partner agencies is commendable. We will continue to work tirelessly to protect our children and ensure that those who exploit them are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law."
Secretary of Justice Crispin C. Remulla also commended the operations, adding, "These successful operations in Iligan City are a clear message to those who exploit our children: we will find you, and you will be held accountable. The Department of Justice stands firmly with our law enforcement partners in ensuring that those who prey on the most vulnerable in our society are brought to justice. We will continue to prioritize the fight against OSAEC and ensure that the rule of law prevails in every corner of the country."
The WCPC-MFU’s continuous campaign against OSAEC remains strong, with ongoing operations throughout the country. The WCPC encourages the public to report incidents of online sexual abuse through their 24/7 Facebook page: PNP Women and Children Protection Center (https://www.facebook.com/wcpc.didmpnp).
The rescued victims have been turned over to the CSWDO-Iligan City for assessment, evaluation, and further care, while the suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.
