Authorities are tracking an online child exploitation suspect who targeted two minors on Facebook. He coerced them into explicit video calls, prompting an urgent police investigation. Based on the victims’ statements and social media evidence, officers have identified him and are now working to locate and arrest him.
C/Master Sgt. Shindey Taboco, head of the Women and Children Protection Desk at the Talisay City Police Office, revealed that the suspect befriended the minors before manipulating them into video calls where he committed indecent acts.
“The suspect made video calls to these minors and performed lewd acts in open camera,” Taboco said on Friday. “The parents reported to the police.”
Police Identify Suspect’s Location
Col. Lemuel Gonda, chief of the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit 7 (RACU-7), confirmed that officers have determined the suspect’s whereabouts. Investigators are now preparing charges and coordinating with authorities in his area to facilitate an arrest.
“We have enough information to move forward,” Gonda told the Philippine News Agency. “The evidence from social media and victim testimonies has been helpful in piecing everything together.”
With the investigation nearing its next phase, officials are urging the public to remain alert to similar threats online.
Victims Under Social Welfare Support
After the report was filed, social workers stepped in to provide the two minors with immediate assistance. On Thursday afternoon, the City Social Welfare Department of Talisay City took them in for psychosocial intervention.
“The trauma from this kind of abuse can be deep, so we’re prioritizing their well-being and recovery,” Gonda said.
A Growing Concern: Online Sexual Exploitation of Minors
This incident adds to the growing number of online child exploitation cases in the Philippines. The country remains a major target for predators who use social media and messaging platforms to exploit minors.
Taboco warned that children with unrestricted internet access face higher risks, especially if parents and guardians do not monitor their online interactions.
“Predators take advantage of young users who don’t yet recognize warning signs,” she said. “They gain their trust, then slowly push them into dangerous situations.”
She urged parents to take active steps in protecting their children by:
- Regularly checking their online activities
- Reviewing friend lists and privacy settings
- Educating them about online threats
- Encouraging open conversations about digital safety
“The best protection comes from awareness and guidance,” Taboco emphasized. “Children need to know they can talk to their parents if something feels wrong.”
The Legal and Law Enforcement Response
Authorities have strengthened efforts to combat online child exploitation, but tracking and arresting predators remains difficult.
The Anti-Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) Law imposes long prison sentences and heavy fines on offenders. However, cybercriminals frequently operate across borders, making enforcement complex.
“The Philippines has strict laws against online child exploitation, but more cooperation is needed between law enforcement, social media companies, and internet providers to stop these crimes before they happen,” an official from RACU-7 stated.
Call for Public Vigilance
With the manhunt ongoing, officials are calling on the public to remain watchful and report any suspicious behavior involving minors.
“We encourage anyone who may have relevant information about the suspect’s whereabouts to come forward. Our priority is to ensure the safety of children and prevent more victims from being exploited,” Gonda emphasized.
For now, the victims are receiving the care they need, while authorities work to bring the suspect to justice. Investigators remain focused on preventing similar cases and ensuring a safer online environment for children.
