Authorities have arrested three people in an entrapment operation in Mati City, Davao Oriental for allegedly exploiting children online.

The suspects were arrested after personnel of the Philippine National Police-Women and Children Protection Center (PNP-WCPC) implemented a warrant to search, seized, and examine computer data (WSSECD) late last week.

During the operation, 11 alleged victims were rescued – seven minor girls, a woman of legal age, and three children at risk.

Authorities also arrested two adults and rescued a 17-year-old girl, who was taken into protective custody as a child in conflict with the law (CICL).

The operating team confiscated several digital and non-digital evidence that linked the suspects to online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC) and child sexual abuse or exploitation materials (CSAEM) activities.

The suspects arrested were taken into police custody while the minor suspect was brought to the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) for intervention.

The minor victims rescued were also brought to CSWDO for assessment and psychosocial support.

Authorities said that perpetrators may face penalties of up to life imprisonment and fines reaching P5 million, depending on the gravity of the offense.