STO. NIÑO, South Cotabato — A 64-year-old pastor was arrested by police in the early hours of July 7 after authorities served a warrant of arrest against him for an Acts of Lasciviousness case allegedly involving a minor in violation of Republic Act No. 7610, the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.
The suspect, identified only by the alias “JoJo,” is a resident of Tboli Village in the municipality of Lake Sebu, South Cotabato.
Operatives of the Sto. Niño Municipal Police Station (MPS) carried out the arrest at around 12:30 a.m. as part of the implementation of a warrant issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 26 in Surallah, South Cotabato on June 29, 2026.
According to the police, the court set bail at ₱108,000 for the suspect’s temporary release.
Authorities said the charges stem from a complaint filed by a young girl alleging acts that constitute Acts of Lasciviousness under Philippine law and are reportedly linked to violations of Republic Act No. 7610, which provides special protection to children against abuse and exploitation.
Following his arrest, the accused was taken to the Lake Sebu Municipal Police Station, where he remains under police custody while awaiting the issuance of a commitment order from the court and the continuation of legal proceedings.
The arrest forms part of the Philippine National Police’s continuing campaign to locate and apprehend individuals facing criminal charges through the service of lawful court-issued warrants.
Police reminded the public that while the suspect has been arrested, the filing of charges and the arrest do not constitute a finding of guilt. Under Philippine law, the accused is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt by a competent court.