Girl, 17, entrapped for cyberporn operation

CEBU, Philippines — A 17-year-old girl who was allegedly involved in online trafficking was arrested in an entrapment operation led by Women and Children Protection Center-Visayas Field Unit (VCPC- VFU) at around 1 p.m. yesterday in Barangay Sambag 2, Cebu City.

WCPC chief Senior Superintendent Romeo Perigo said that the suspect offered three minors to the police undercover for online sexual engagement for $40 or P2,000.

During the operation, the police rescued a 14-year-old victim and she is now under the custody of Department and Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Perigo said that they are still conducting a follow up operation for possible rescue of the other two victims.

The suspect, Nena (real name withheld), is allegedly involved in transmitting explicit images and videos of herself and of her three minor victims to customers.

Nena's parents are reportedly in jail for a drug case.

Perigo said that they have been monitoring Nena after she was reported by barangay officials of Sambag 2.

He said that this is not the first time they apprehended a minor involved in online trafficking.

"Dili maingon nga alarming, basta accessible ang internet daghan gyud ang mahaylo nga trabaho kay easy money," said Perigo in a phone interview with The FREEMAN.

Since Nena is a minor, she was also turned over to DSWD.

Perigo said that they are coordinating with DSWD to establish if Nena was acting with discernment.

She could face charges for violation of Republic Act 9775 or the Anti-Child Pornography Act in relation to Republic Act 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act and RA 9208 or the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003.

WCPC was assisted by the International Justice Mission (IJM), Cebu City Police Office - WCPD and Special Weapon and Tactics during the operation.

"It is unfortunate that a brutal crime such as online sexual exploitation of children can also be perpetrated by minors against other children. If determined to be acting with discernment, the suspect will have to face accountability and go through the proper interventions under the law, otherwise, she will continue to exploit children with impunity," said Atty. Lucille Dejito, Director of Legal Interventions of IJM-Cebu. (FREEMAN)