DIGOS CITY, Davao del Sur — Eight minors were rescued while three adults were arrested during a law enforcement operation targeting Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) in Barangay San Jose, Digos City, authorities said.
The entrapment and rescue operation, conducted on July 18, 2026, led to the arrest of one female and two male suspects inside a residence in Purok Acacia, Barangay San Jose, where investigators also uncovered alleged child sexual abuse materials and illegal drugs.
According to police, six of the rescued minors were identified as victims of online sexual exploitation, while two others were classified as children at risk, highlighting the broader vulnerability of minors exposed to exploitative environments.
The operation also included the implementation of a Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data, allowing authorities to inspect various digital devices recovered from the suspects’ residence.
During the forensic examination, investigators reportedly discovered Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) stored in the confiscated electronic devices, providing further evidence supporting the OSAEC investigation.
In addition to the cybercrime-related evidence, operatives also recovered approximately 6.30 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated street value of more than ₱42,000 inside the residence, potentially exposing the suspects to additional charges under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.
Authorities immediately turned over the eight rescued children to the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), where they will receive temporary shelter, psychosocial intervention, medical assessment, and other protective services while undergoing proper interviews and case documentation.
Meanwhile, the three arrested suspects remain under the custody of the Digos City Police Station as investigators prepare the filing of appropriate criminal charges for alleged violations of laws against online sexual exploitation of children, child abuse, and other related offenses. Additional charges concerning the recovered illegal drugs are also being evaluated.
Following the operation, DOJ-Regional Prosecution Office XI Regional Prosecutor Atty. Janet Grace B. Dalisay-Fabrero urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant in protecting children from exploitation.
She emphasized the importance of closely monitoring children’s activities, providing proper guidance, and serving as positive role models to shield them from abuse and exploitation in both physical and online environments.
Authorities stressed that the operation underscores the government’s continuing campaign to combat online child exploitation, which remains one of the country’s most pressing cybercrime and child protection concerns.
Law enforcement agencies likewise appealed to the public to immediately report suspected cases of child exploitation, particularly those involving online platforms, to help prevent further abuse and ensure the protection of vulnerable children.