A woman was arrested for alleged online exploitation of her own children – a 12-year-old girl and two boys, 10 months and two years old – in Iligan City on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.

Authorities said the three minors were rescued from their home after authorities served a warrant to search, seize, and examine computer data on their mother in Barangay Tubod.

According to the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), the suspect reportedly used different names to hide her identity while operating secretly for years.

PAOCC said the investigation began in 2019 when suspicious online activity was first reported and flagged internationally.

PAOCC added that the suspect allegedly sent explicit photos and videos of minors to individuals abroad.

“All of them had been subjected to exploitation at the hands of their own mother,” PAOCC said.

Authorities from the Philippines and other countries then worked together until the source was located.

During the operation, the presence of child sexual abuse and exploitation materials (CSAEM) was confirmed.

Investigators also found records showing payments from foreign individuals.

“This case is a painful reminder of how vulnerable children can be, even in places where they should feel safest. We remain committed to strengthening coordination among agencies and international partners to ensure that those behind these crimes are identified and brought to justice,” PAOCC Executive Director, Undersecretary Benjamin Acorda, Jr., said.

Authorities are also tracking down a foreign national linked to the case to ensure that everyone involved is held accountable.

Task Force OSAEC Iligan City said the suspect is now detained and facing charges for violations of Republic Act 11930 or the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act (CSAEM).

“This operation is more than an arrest. It is a message. We will find you. We will stop you. And we will protect every child,” Task Force OSAEC said.

Meanwhile, the minors rescued are now under the care of social workers for protection, medical attention, and psychological intervention.

“Behind every operation like this is a painful reality, children who suffer in silence. But today, that silence was broken.They are no longer victims. They are survivors,” Task Force OSAEC added.