Four minors were rescued from an online child pornography syndicate in Iligan City.
According to a report by GMA News’ Mariz Umali on “State of the Nation with Jessica Soho” on Thursday, one of the victims is a two-year-old child of one of the suspects.
The raid was conducted by the Philippine National Police – Women Children Protection Center Mindanao Field Office (PNP-WCPC), Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT), International Justice Mission and Department of Social Welfare and Development Region X in Barangay Saray.
The joint operation was conducted based on a tip.
“Magugulat ka because of the proliferation ng internet-pisonet ‘yung hinuhulugan ng piso na kuwan ‘dun nila ginagawa ‘yung pinapa-show ‘yung bata at ine-exploit,” said PNP-WCPC chief Supt. Villamor Tuliao.
Authorities recovered the computer units used in “sextortion.”
The report also said European nationals were regular “clients” of the syndicate.
The five suspects will face charges related to the violation of provisions of the Anti Trafficking in Persons Act, Anti Child Pornography Act of 2009 Special Protection Against Child Abuse, and Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
Meanwhile, the victims were turned over to the Social Welfare office in Iligan City. — Anna Felicia Bajo/BAP, GMA News