FOUR minors were rescued from a human trafficking operation involving online sexual abuse and exploitation after authorities served a search warrant at a residence in the City of Naga, southern Cebu, on Thursday, May 29, 2025, officials said.
The rescued individuals include three girls, ages six, 14, and 15, and a 15-year-old boy. They are now in the custody of the Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC)-Visayas Field Unit, which is coordinating with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 7 for their care.
The operation, conducted at 11 a.m., targeted a 33-year-old woman in a barangay in the city, about 25 kilometers south of Cebu City. It was carried out under a warrant issued by Acting Judge Benison Mahawan of Regional Trial Court Branch 65 in Talisay City.
The woman is the mother of the three girls, and aunt of the boy. She denied the allegations against her.
The search warrant authorizes authorities to search, seize, and examine computer data from the woman, who is accused of violating Republic Act 11930, also known as the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act.
During the operation, authorities seized five cellular phones. Investigators believe the phones were used by the suspect to record victims.
The WCPC was joined by forensic examiners from the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit, as well as representatives from the Department of Justice and the DSWD 7.
The investigation began after a foreign law enforcement agency alerted Philippine authorities to the suspect’s illicit activities. That agency provided initial information, including details about the place where the crime took place, the suspect’s identity, and evidence such as photographs and money transfer records.
The WCPC validated the information before applying for the search warrant.
Police officials declined to provide further details to protect the privacy of the minors and their families.
The DSWD 7 is providing stress debriefing for the four children, who are reported to be traumatized by the incident.
Police continue to monitor online sexual abuse and exploitation throughout Central Visayas in coordination with international counterparts. / AYB