According to the 2024 Annual Report of the Recovery and Reintegration Program for Trafficked Persons (RRPTP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office X (DSWD 10), Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) remains the leading form of human trafficking in Northern Mindanao.
The report reveals that Region X recorded 75 cases of Trafficking in Persons (TIPs), with 49 cases linked to OSAEC. These cases involve the exploitation of minors online for sexual content across the region’s four provinces: Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, and Misamis Oriental. Among these, Lanao del Norte reported the highest number of TIP cases.
Other reported forms of trafficking include Online Sexual Exploitation/Pornography (Adult), sexual exploitation, prostitution, illegal recruitment, forced labor, and Children in Armed Conflict (CIAC).
In Region 10, RRPTP 10 extended holistic welfare services to TIP victim-survivors, which included psychosocial counseling, educational assistance, livelihood support, medical aid, support to victim/witnesses, and hygiene kits. Social workers from DSWD 10 and local social welfare and development offices conducted thorough assessments of survivors’ needs to ensure targeted and appropriate interventions.
The program also extended support to survivors’ families, focusing on assistance during temporary sheltering or reintegration into their communities to promote holistic recovery and healing.
“It is deeply saddening that the internet, a tool meant to enhance our lives, has become a platform for exploiting children. Even more heartbreaking is the fact that some of the perpetrators are the children’s own parents. This urgent issue calls for collective action from every member of the community. Let us uphold our shared responsibility to create a safe environment where children can thrive. Stay vigilant, report any suspicious activities to the proper authorities, and support victims in their recovery and reintegration,” emphasized DSWD Regional Director Ramel Jamen in his call for collective action.
On a national scale, the DSWD, through the RRPTP, assisted 2,024 victim-survivors across the country in 2024. The government allocated PHP 24.9 million to deliver comprehensive services such as shelter, medical care, education, and livelihood support.
Given the increasing weaponization of online platforms for trafficking, the DSWD emphasizes the critical role of local communities, law enforcement, and stakeholders in combating OSAEC and other forms of exploitation. Raising public awareness, encouraging community vigilance, and strengthening support for victim reintegration are essential strategies to address this escalating issue.
For inquiries, concerns, or to report suspected cases of trafficking, the public is urged to contact the RRPTP Helpline at 0928-386-5232.
Together, we can combat human trafficking, protect vulnerable populations, and prioritize the recovery and well-being of survivors. ###