Bongao, Tawi-Tawi — The quick thinking and vigilance of the 1st Special Operations Unit-Maritime Group (1st SOU-MG) prevented a potential case of human trafficking on September 17, 2025, leading to the successful rescue of twelve (12) women who were about to fall prey to illegal recruiters.
The operation began when PLTCOL Jeseryl A. Dela Cruz, Commander of the 1st SOU-MG, noticed the suspicious condition of several women while on the same commercial flight from Manila bound for Zamboanga and Bongao, Tawi-Tawi. Trusting his instincts, he immediately relayed the information to his unit for swift coordination and action.
Upon the flight’s arrival at Sanga-Sanga Airport in Bongao around 10:14 a.m., joint operatives from 1st SOU-MG, MIACAT Tawi-Tawi, Tawi-Tawi MARPSTA, PCTC, MBLT-4, Bongao MPS, CGIU-Central Tawi-Tawi, NISG-WM, NISU 61 Tawi-Tawi, TOGSULTAW-5135ABS, 2MCIC, MCIBN, and RMFB 14B immediately conducted verification and profiling. Their efforts confirmed that the women were victims of illegal recruitment and possible human trafficking.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the victims had been instructed by their recruiter to avoid waiting at the airport and instead ride tricycles to a designated meeting point in Bongao—an instruction that raised further suspicion. The women admitted they had been promised overseas jobs, ranging from waitress positions in Malaysia to customer service roles in Thailand and domestic helper work in China. Their travel expenses were reportedly covered by recruiters who lured them with false job offers.
The rescued women were brought to the 1st SOU-MG Headquarters for documentation before being turned over to the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) in Bongao for appropriate assistance and disposition.
Authorities lauded the keen observation of PLTCOL Dela Cruz and the swift, coordinated response of all agencies involved, stressing that vigilance and proactive measures remain vital in the fight against human trafficking.
This successful intervention once again highlighted the commitment of the PNP Maritime Group and partner agencies to safeguard vulnerable Filipinos, especially women, from syndicates that exploit their hopes for a better life abroad.