Davao City, Philippines (September 8, 2024) –On September 7, 2024, Carlito Sanchez Panolino was arrested by the Women and Children Protection Center-Mindanao Field Unit (WCPC-MFU) for allegedly sexually exploiting a minor online. The operation, executed in collaboration with the Australian Federal Police, International Justice Mission (IJM), and various government agencies, successfully led to the rescue of the minor victim.
WCPC-MFU officials revealed that Panolino used a Facebook account to offer the minor for sexual acts in exchange for money. Online investigators from WCPC-MFU engaged with the suspect, which led to his identification and subsequent arrest.
Law enforcement officers seized crucial evidence during the operation, which will be used to support the charges of online sexual exploitation of children (OSEC) that Panolino now faces.
"This arrest is a significant step in our ongoing fight against OSEC," said PLTCOL Mario M. Baquiran, Jr., Officer-in-Charge of WCPC-MFU. "We are committed to using all available resources to identify and apprehend those who exploit children online."
The WCPC also urged the public to join in the collective fight against OSEC. "Protecting our children is a shared responsibility," Baquiran emphasized. "With the combined efforts of law enforcement, government agencies, private sectors, and the public, we can put an end to the online sexual exploitation of children and create a safer environment for our youth."
Barbara Flores, Executive Director of the National Coordinating Center for the Safe Online Activities of Exploited Children (NCC-SAEC OSAEC), also highlighted the importance of partnerships in fighting these crimes. "Today's rescue in Davao City is a testament to the power of collaboration. Together, we can put an end to OSAEC and create a safer future for all children," she said.
Undersecretary Ty echoed this sentiment, stressing the need for continued joint efforts. "Today's operation underscores the strength of collaboration in our fight against the online exploitation of children. We will not rest until every child is protected from these heinous crimes, and justice is served to those who seek to harm them."
Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla commended the efforts of all involved in the operation. "This arrest marks a pivotal step in our relentless pursuit of justice for victims of online sexual exploitation. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement, government agencies, and international partners demonstrate our unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable children. We will not rest until those who exploit our youth are held accountable and brought to justice," Remulla stated.
The arrest and rescue operation stand as a clear message that the fight against OSAEC is ongoing, and that law enforcement agencies, alongside their partners, are dedicated to ensuring the safety and protection of children across the Philippines.
In its continued campaign against OSEC, the WCPC has launched a series of operations across the country.
The WCPC runs a Facebook page twenty-four hours a day, where people can report online sexual abuse and exploitation of children. They invite everyone to share information and report at this Facebook page: PNP Women and Children Protection Center (https://www.facebook.com/wcpc.didmpnp).
