DSWD-7 records 21 trafficking cases since January

CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-7 recorded 21 cases of trafficking in persons (TIP) and seven cases of online sexual abuse or exploitation of children (OSAEC) in Central Visayas from January to June 2026.

Data from the agency's Recovery and Reintegration Program for Trafficked Persons (RRPTP) showed that 12 of the trafficking cases involved male victim-survivors, while nine involved female victim-survivors. Of the seven OSAEC cases, two were male victims and five were female victims.

DSWD-7 Regional Director Shalaine Marie Lucero said in a statement that the agency immediately responds to reports received through its Trafficking in Persons Helpline and continues to coordinate with partner agencies to protect victims and prosecute offenders.

“The DSWD-7 Trafficking in Persons Helpline remains open to receive reports from concerned citizens. We continue to work closely with our partner government agencies to ensure rescue operations are conducted safely and in accordance with established protocols,” Lucero said.

“We encourage everyone to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately so that we can help protect potential victims. No one deserves to fall victim to this heinous crime,” she added.

The agency said it participated in two rescue and entrapment operations in Cebu City in May 2026 in coordination with the National Bureau of Investigation-Central Visayas Regional Office and the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT).

On May 11, authorities rescued four women from an alleged prostitution ring in Barangay Camputhaw, Cebu City, and endorsed the case to the IACAT for further action.

On May 24, another operation, prompted by a report received through the DSWD-7 TIP Helpline, led to the rescue of two male minors from a foreign national's condominium unit in Barangay Mabolo.

The DSWD-7 said the rescued victim-survivors underwent case profiling and psychosocial interventions by agency social workers before being admitted to protective facilities.

The interventions are tailored to the needs of each client and include counseling, case management, family sessions, therapeutic activities, stress debriefing, and specialized mental health support to aid their recovery and reintegration.

The department also refers victim-survivors and their families to various government programs, including the Sustainable Livelihood Program, Walang Gutom Program, Pag-abot Program, and other interventions that address their socioeconomic needs.

The public may report suspected trafficking in persons cases through the DSWD-7 TIP Helpline at 0917-703-0967 or by email at [email protected]. Reports of violence against children may also be made through the DSWD MAKABATA Helpline 1383.

Individuals experiencing emotional distress or crisis may also seek assistance through DSWD-7's Wireless Support (WiSupport), a mental health and psychosocial support service that can be accessed by calling or texting 0999-849-9733 (Smart) or by emailing [email protected]. — (FREEMAN)