Woman charged with human trafficking in Pampanga

MANILA, Philippines — Criminal charges were filed against a woman who was arrested by agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in Angeles City, Pampanga for alleged involvement in human trafficking activities.

NBI Director Jaime Santiago said the woman, whom he did not identify, underwent inquest proceedings before the Angeles prosecutor’s office, where she was charged with laws penalizing the online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, human trafficking and child abuse.

The suspect was arrested in an entrapment operation on July 18 after a non-government organization informed the NBI about her illegal activities.

Santiago said the suspect had offered the sexual services of females, including minors aged 13 to 17, on social media platforms for P3,000 to P5,000.

The suspect also sent photographs of some of the girls through Facebook Messenger.

The suspect was apprehended after she negotiated with an NBI agent posing as a client for the sexual services of four girls in exchange for P12,000.

Santiago said the NBI remains steadfast in its commitment to fight human trafficking and child sexual exploitation.