In steadfast pursuit of its mandate to protect the welfare of vulnerable sectors, the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office X (DSWD 10) took active part in two successful entrapment and rescue operations in Iligan City on May 7 and 9, 2025. These operations led to the rescue of 10 victim-survivors, including minors, from online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC) activities.
The coordinated operations were led by the Philippine National Police – Women and Children Protection Center-Mindanao Field Unit and the Iligan City Police Office Task Force OSAEC, with critical support from the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit 10, Regional Anti-Child Online Sexual Exploitation and Trafficking Task Force 10 of the Department of Justice, the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) – Iligan City, and DSWD 10. Authorities also seized various digital devices containing child sexual abuse and exploitation materials and arrested multiple suspects believed to be OSAEC facilitators.
On May 7, authorities rescued seven (7) victim-survivors and apprehended one female suspect in Purok Mangga, Barangay Tubod, Iligan City. Initial investigations revealed that the victims were coerced into creating sexually explicit content, which was then sold and distributed online for financial gain.
A second entrapment operation, dubbed “Oplan Queen,” was carried out on May 9 in Purok 3, Barangay Tambacan, Iligan City, leading to the rescue of three (3) minor victims. The operation uncovered a disturbing exchange of sexual acts involving minors for online payments, facilitated by a known OSAEC perpetrator who was also apprehended on-site.
Authorities further reported that individuals in the vicinity were caught in the act of illegal drug use—highlighting substance abuse as one of the contributing factors that fuel the cycle of child exploitation.
Immediately following the rescues, social workers from DSWD 10 and CSWDO Iligan provided trauma-informed care, psychosocial support, and arranged safe shelter for the victims through the Children Assessment and Processing Center. DSWD 10 continues to be involved in case management, legal coordination, and rehabilitation support for the rescued children.
“These rescue operations go beyond law enforcement—it is about restoring dignity and hope to children who have been stripped of both,” said DSWD 10 Regional Director Ramel F. Jamen. “As public servants, it is our calling to act swiftly and compassionately in the face of exploitation. At DSWD, we are anchored in the values of maagap at mapagkalingang serbisyo and tapat na paglilingkod sa bayan. We do not just respond—we care deeply. These children deserve not only rescue, but a life of healing, opportunity, and respect.”
The arrested suspects now face criminal charges for violations of Republic Act 11930 (Anti-OSAEC Law), RA 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act), and RA 11862 (Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act).
DSWD 10, together with its law enforcement and local government partners, reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the fight against OSAEC. The agency calls on the public to remain vigilant and report suspected cases through the RRPTP Helpline at 0928-386-5232 or by contacting your local authorities. Together, we stand to end online child exploitation and ensure a safer future for every Filipino child.