ILIGAN CITY, Philippines — Authorities rescued three minors, including a 12-year-old girl and two young boys aged two years and 10 months, during a targeted anti-online sexual abuse operation conducted on the morning of March 17, 2026, in Barangay Tubod.
The operation, carried out at around 10:00 a.m. in Purok Mangga, Zone 1, was led by the Iligan City Police Office (ICPO) Task Force Against Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC). It was implemented through a Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data (WSSECD No. 26-003), allowing authorities to inspect digital devices suspected of containing illegal materials.
Police confirmed that a suspect was arrested during the operation and is now facing charges for violating Republic Act 11930, also known as the Anti-OSAEC and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act.
According to investigators, a forensic examination of seized electronic devices revealed the presence of child sexual abuse and exploitation materials (CSAEM), strengthening the case against the suspect.
The successful rescue of the minors and arrest of the suspect was the result of coordinated efforts among both local and international agencies. The Philippine National Police expressed gratitude to the United Kingdom National Crime Agency (UKNCA) and the Department of Justice – Office of Cybercrime (DOJ-OOC) for their crucial role in case referral and intelligence buildup. Additional support from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region 10 also contributed to the operation’s success.
The rescued children have been placed under the care and protection of social welfare authorities, where they will receive necessary interventions, including psychosocial support.
Police officials reiterated their commitment to intensify operations against online sexual exploitation, emphasizing the growing threat posed by digital platforms in facilitating abuse. They also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious online activities involving minors.
The case underscores the continuing fight against OSAEC in the Philippines, a crime that has drawn increasing global concern and prompted stronger collaboration between law enforcement agencies worldwide.