By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan | Philippine News Agency
The Philippine National Police (PNP) vowed to build strong charges after its Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC) rescued 18 minors in three separate operations on Feb. 18 and 19.
The PNP’s intensified campaign against online child sexual abuse and trafficking in persons also resulted in the arrest of a female Filipino suspect in Abuyog, Leyte on Feb. 19, linked to a case referral involving the previous arrest of a 50-year-old Norwegian national for possession of child sexual abuse materials.
“Our priority is always the safety and recovery of the victims. We ensure that rescued children are immediately placed under proper care,” PNP Chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said Nartatez said in a news release over the weekend.
“At the same time, we build strong cases against perpetrators. This is part of our commitment under the PNP Focused Agenda—enhancing how we manage police operations so our response is faster, smarter, and more compassionate.”
Forensic examination of the Norwegian’s mobile device revealed online communications, explicit content and financial transactions linked to a local contact.
Seven children were rescued in Leyte, while authorities recovered several digital devices, including mobile phones and a tablet, and explicit video files involving minors.
The following day in Cagayan de Oro City, WCPC operatives rescued one female minor following a referral from the Philippine Internet Crimes Against Children Center in coordination with international law enforcement partners and with support of local police units and social welfare offices.
In Tanauan City, Batangas, a rescue operation conducted by WCPC units and local police, in close coordination with the City Social Welfare and Development Office, led to the rescue of 10 minors believed to be victims of trafficking in persons.
All children are under the protective custody of social welfare authorities for psychosocial assessment and care.
“The protection of our children is non-negotiable. Hindi tayo titigil sa pagprotekta at pagbibigay hustisya para sa mga biktima,” Nartatez said. (PNA)
