The Philippine National Police (PNP), through the Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC), successfully rescued three minors believed to be victims of online sexual exploitation during an operation in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, on June 4, 2026.
The rescue followed intelligence shared through international law enforcement cooperation and was conducted with support from local PNP units and social welfare authorities. A 51-year-old Filipina suspect was taken into custody in connection with the case.
The rescued minors were immediately placed under the care of social welfare authorities to receive protection, psychosocial support, and other interventions. Investigations are ongoing to identify additional individuals potentially involved in the exploitation.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. commended the coordinated effort, underscoring the police force’s commitment to safeguarding children from digital crimes.
“Every child deserves to grow up in a safe environment, free from abuse and exploitation. This successful rescue reflects the dedication of our police officers and partner agencies in protecting the most vulnerable members of our society,” he said.
Nartatez emphasized that the PNP will continue to pursue individuals who exploit children online while strengthening partnerships with communities, families, and partner agencies. The operation forms part of the PNP’s intensified campaign against cyber-enabled crimes, aligned with its Focused Agenda on Enhanced Managing Police Operations and the government’s broader initiatives on child protection and public safety.
The PNP assured the public that all legal measures will be pursued against those responsible and reaffirmed its dedication to its vision of “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.”