DILG, NCRPO rescue 15 minors in Manila cybersex den operation
By Chito Chavez
Fifteen minors believed to be used in cybersex crimes were rescued by joint teams from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) in Sampaloc, Manila on Thursday, Sept. 8.

DILG Secretary Benjamin "Benhur" Abalos Jr. and Brig. Gen. Jonnel Estomo, NCRPO regional director, led the rescue operation which also resulted to the arrest of two alleged sex traffickers.
The DILG did not reveal the identities of the suspects who were brought to the Philippine National Police's (PNP) Women and Children Protection Center for documentation and proper disposition.
Abalos emphasized that the administration of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. strongly condemns cyberporn and other illegal activities, particularly those involving children.
“These kind of crimes are very disturbing and the worst of its kind as they target and victimize innocent children. The impact of cybersex crimes on children have long-term effects on them and, oftentimes, ruin their lives,” Abalos added.
Last month, the DILG forged an agreement with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Justice (DOJ), and Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to form a united front against the proliferation of cybersex crimes.
“We have to take seriously this kind of crimes preying on our children online and end sexual exploitation by strengthening our campaign against cyberporn and providing them safe space online, now that they are more exposed to activities done virtually in light of the restrictions brought by the pandemic,” Abalos noted.
“With the help of the DOJ, DSWD and the DICT, we can intensify our initiatives on tracking down cybersex dens and be able to save our children and minors from the abuse and danger,” he noted.
Abalos also urged the public to report suspected child predators and any suspicious activities to the DILG or the PNP hotline.