The Philippine National Police (PNP) said it is prepared to assist United States authorities in locating a Filipino national wanted in connection with an online child exploitation case.
PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the agency is coordinating with its international counterparts, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), as part of efforts to track down the suspect, who is alleged to have been involved in an online network targeting minors.
Authorities said the suspect, Austin Jan Sy Yatco, is wanted by US authorities for alleged involvement in an online network that targeted minors between 2019 and 2021. He is being sought for alleged crimes linked to the production and distribution of child sexual abuse material facilitated through online platforms.
The FBI has already offered a US$25,000 reward for any information leading to Yatco’s arrest. US authorities have said Yatco, who was born in San Pedro, Laguna, is believed to have links to both the Philippines and Plano, Texas.
Nartatez said Philippine law enforcement units are currently validating intelligence leads and monitoring possible locations of the individual within the country, while maintaining coordination with foreign agencies.
He added that specialized cybercrime and field units have been activated to support both digital tracking and on-the-ground operations, depending on the development of the investigation.
“The PNP is ready to assist in any lawful effort to locate and hold accountable individuals involved in child exploitation,” Nartatez said, emphasizing continued cooperation with international partners in the case.