A man from the municipality of Balo-i, Lanao del Norte was arrested by authorities in Marawi City after allegedly abusing his own children in an incident that sparked outrage online and renewed calls for stronger protection of children and women against domestic violence.
Authorities confirmed that the suspect is now under police custody while charges are being prepared against him for possible violations of Republic Act No. 7610, or the “Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act,” and Republic Act No. 9262, also known as the “Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004.”
The arrest came after a sensitive video circulated on social media allegedly showing the man hurting his children in what investigators believe was an attempt to emotionally manipulate and threaten his wife, who is currently working in Manila.
According to initial information gathered by authorities, the suspect admitted that he committed the act in an effort to force his wife to return home. He allegedly wanted to frighten her by using their children as leverage amid their family conflict.
The suspect also reportedly admitted that he was under the influence of illegal drugs at the time of the incident. Authorities said he will undergo a drug test as part of the ongoing investigation to determine possible drug use.
Police and social welfare authorities are now closely monitoring the condition of the children and ensuring they receive the necessary protection and intervention following the traumatic incident.
The disturbing case quickly drew condemnation from netizens, many of whom expressed anger over the alleged blackmail and abuse inflicted on innocent children. Online users called for justice for the victims and stricter enforcement of laws protecting women and minors from violence inside the home.
Child rights advocates emphasized that children should never be used as instruments for revenge, intimidation, or emotional manipulation during domestic disputes. They warned that exposure to violence and abuse can leave long-term psychological and emotional trauma on minors.
Under Republic Act No. 7610, any act of child abuse, cruelty, exploitation, or conduct prejudicial to a child’s development is punishable under Philippine law. Offenders may face imprisonment and other legal penalties depending on the gravity of the offense.
Meanwhile, Republic Act No. 9262 or the VAWC Law protects women and their children from physical, psychological, sexual, and economic abuse committed by a spouse, former partner, live-in partner, or any person with whom the victim has or had a relationship.
The law recognizes that violence is not limited to physical harm. Psychological violence — including intimidation, threats, emotional manipulation, harassment, public humiliation, and using children to cause emotional suffering to a woman — is also punishable under the VAWC Act.
Legal experts noted that threatening or hurting children to force or manipulate a spouse may constitute psychological violence under RA 9262, especially when the act causes severe emotional anguish and mental suffering to the woman and her children.
Authorities urged victims of domestic abuse and violence against children to immediately seek help from police, social welfare offices, barangay officials, or women and children protection desks to prevent further harm and ensure the safety of victims.