Several children were rescued during an anti-online child sexual abuse and exploitation operation conducted by authorities in Digos City, Davao del Sur on Saturday, July 18.
The operation was carried out by the Philippine National Police’s Women and Children Protection Center–Mindanao Field Unit in coordination with the Department of Justice Regional Anti-Child Online Sexual Exploitation and Trafficking Task Force XI and other law enforcement agencies.
Authorities conducted an entrapment and rescue operation while simultaneously implementing a Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data as part of the investigation into alleged violations of Republic Act No. 11930, or the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act.
During the operation, authorities rescued several children believed to have been victims of, or at risk of becoming victims of, online sexual abuse and exploitation.
The rescued children were immediately placed under the care of the City Social Welfare and Development Office in Digos City, where they are receiving protection, psychosocial intervention and other necessary support services.
Authorities also recovered suspected illegal drugs during the operation. Investigators are looking into whether the seized substances are connected to possible violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Law enforcement agencies said they are preparing the appropriate criminal charges against those allegedly involved in the case.
The Department of Justice and the Philippine National Police said they will continue strengthening their campaign against online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, child sexual abuse or exploitation materials, and other crimes involving the abuse and exploitation of minors.
Authorities withheld the identities of the rescued children and did not disclose the exact location of the operation to protect the minors, in accordance with Philippine laws safeguarding children’s rights and privacy.
