'High-profile' suspect nabbed over child exploitation case in Zambales

A "high-profile" suspect was arrested in Zambales for alleged involvement in the sexual abuse and exploitation of a minor, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said on Saturday.

In a statement, the NBI said the arrest stemmed from a high-level case referral from the US Department of Homeland Security through its Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), which reported that an individual in the Philippines was transmitting sexually explicit materials involving minors to the United States.

One of the minor victims, who disclosed that she had been abused and exploited by the suspect, was rescued on February 16.

The rescue led to the issuance of a Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data (WSSECD), which authorities implemented at the suspect’s residence in Subic, Zambales on March 11.

The unnamed suspect was arrested after an on-site digital examination of his mobile phone allegedly uncovered child sexual abuse materials.

“The arrest of this individual sends a clear message: the Philippines is not a safe haven for those who seek to profit from the exploitation of children,” said Melvin Matibag, NBI director.

“Through our robust partnership with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and our own advanced digital forensic capabilities, the NBI remains relentless in tracking down OSAEC facilitators, no matter how they try to hide behind a screen," he said.

"We are committed to uprooting these networks to ensure the safety of our children in the digital space,” Matibag added.

The suspect is facing charges for violating the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act.—MCG, GMA Integrated News