Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) continues to plague Northern Mindanao, emerging as the leading form of human trafficking in the region. The 2024 Annual Report of the Recovery and Reintegration Program for Trafficked Persons (RRPTP) from the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office X (DSWD 10) paints a grim picture of this growing menace.
Shocking Statistics
In 2024, Northern Mindanao recorded 75 cases of Trafficking in Persons (TIP), with 49 cases attributed to OSAEC. These incidents span across the region’s four provinces: Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, and Misamis Oriental. Among these, Lanao del Norte registered the highest number of TIP cases, highlighting the urgent need for targeted interventions in the area.
Other forms of human trafficking reported in the region include:
- Online Sexual Exploitation/Pornography involving adults,
- Sexual exploitation,
- Prostitution,
- Illegal recruitment,
- Forced labor,
- Involvement of children in armed conflict (CIAC).
National and Regional Efforts
On a national level, the DSWD, through the RRPTP, assisted 2,024 victim-survivors in 2024, allocating PHP 24.9 million to provide critical services. These include shelter, medical care, educational support, and livelihood programs aimed at reintegrating survivors into society.
In Region 10, RRPTP extended a suite of holistic services to survivors of TIP, including:
- Psychosocial Counseling: Addressing emotional and mental health needs.
- Educational Assistance: Enabling access to schooling for minors.
- Livelihood Support: Helping survivors rebuild their economic independence.
- Medical Aid: Ensuring physical recovery.
- Victim/Witness Support: Assisting survivors during legal proceedings.
- Hygiene Kits: Promoting personal well-being.
DSWD social workers collaborated with local social welfare offices to conduct detailed assessments, tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of each survivor.
Family-Centered Recovery
Recognizing the importance of family in the recovery process, the program also supported survivors’ families. Assistance ranged from facilitating temporary sheltering to aiding reintegration into their communities. This holistic approach aims to foster lasting recovery and healing for both survivors and their loved ones.
The Role of Community in Combating OSAEC
With online platforms increasingly weaponized for exploitation, the DSWD stresses the need for community involvement in combating OSAEC and other forms of human trafficking. Key strategies include:
- Raising Awareness: Educating the public about the dangers and signs of trafficking.
- Encouraging Vigilance: Promoting active reporting of suspicious activities.
- Strengthening Reintegration Support: Ensuring survivors receive comprehensive care as they rebuild their lives.
How You Can Help
Human trafficking is a societal issue that requires collective action. If you suspect a case of trafficking or need assistance, you can contact the RRPTP Helpline at 0928-386-5232.
Together, we can stand against the exploitation of the vulnerable, uphold the dignity of survivors, and create a safer future for our communities. Let’s be the change that ensures no one is left to fight these shadows alone.
