2 minors rescued in back-to-back police operations

Two male minors were rescued in back-to-back efforts against suspected human trafficking operations held by the Philippine National Police (PNP) over the week.

According to a statement on Friday, an operation that was conducted at a fast food chain in Novaliches, Quezon City last Tuesday led to the arrest of a 26-year-old female suspect and the rescue of a 1-year-old boy.

A second operation was conducted at a gasoline station in South Banaba, Batangas City on Wednesday resulted in the arrest of another female suspect and another male minor.

Both sets of suspects and victims were brought to Women and Children Protection Center offices in Quezon City and Batangas City, respectively, for documentation and disposition.

The suspects will face cases related to the violation of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act (R.A. No. 9208, as amended), the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act (R.A. No. 7610), and relevant provisions of the Cybercrime Prevention Act (R.A. No. 10175).

“This is exactly the kind of result every Filipino expects from their police — swift, coordinated, and focused on protecting the most vulnerable. Hindi namin ipagkakaloob ang anumang pagkakataon para malagay sa panganib ang mga bata. (We will not give them any opportunity to place children in danger.) We will continue to pursue suspects and follow the evidence so justice may be served,” said Acting Chief PNP Police Lieutenant General Jose Nartatez Jr.

“We attribute these successes to the strengthened operational posture under the Enhanced Managing Police Operations (EMPO) of the PNP Focus Agenda. Better coordination, better intelligence, and faster response are key to ensuring the safety of our communities. Sa ganitong paraan, mas napapalakas natin ang proteksyon para sa mga bata at sa ating mga komunidad, (In this way, we can strengthen the protection of children and our community.)” he added.

The PNP encouraged the public to report any suspicious activities to ensure the safety of potential victims as quickly as possible. — Jiselle Anne C. Casucian/BAP, GMA Integrated News