"Pimp" charged for human trafficking

CEBU, Philippines - A 35-year-old “pimp” was indicted by the Cebu City Prosecutor’s Office for sexual trafficking of three minors.

The accused, name withheld because of the confidentiality provision of the law, is a resident of Barangay Cogon-Pardo.

He was caught during an entrapment operation conducted by the members of the Regional Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force in August 26 at the vicinity of a resto bar along V. Rama Avenue.

Assistant city prosecutor Simaco Labata found probable cause to indict the accused for violation of the Republic Act 9208 otherwise known as the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act before Regional Trial Court where there was no bail recommended for his temporary liberty.

The case stemmed from a report received by the members of the anti-trafficking task force in August 23. Police Senior Inspector Maria Theresa Macatangay said they were tipped off by a concern citizen about the alleged illegal activities of the accused.

A surveillance operation was conducted and they were able to make arrangements with the accused for the services of three girls. The accused agreed to meet with the undercover agents of the task force for the supposed delivery of the three girls that they intend to hire at P2,000 each resulting to his arrest and the eventual rescue of the three trafficked minors. — (FREEMAN)