Live-in partners in Bulacan have been convicted of qualified human trafficking by the regional trial court (RTC) for enticing a teenager to work as a househelp and later forcing her to do online nude shows for foreign clients.
In a statement, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said the victim eventually escaped and filed a complaint before the barangay (village) officials. Later, charges were filed before the trial court.
The DOJ said the live-in partners, whose names were not disclosed, were sentenced to reclusion perpetua (jail term ranging from 20 to 40 years) and ordered to pay a fine of P2 million.
In a decision handed down by Judge Francisco M. Beley of the Malolos City RTC, the DOJ said the partners were also ordered to pay the victim (the name was not also disclosed) P500,000 for moral damages and P100,000 for exemplary damages.
“This conviction stands as a resounding testament to the Philippine government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating human trafficking and protecting the most vulnerable members of society,” the DOJ said.
It said the successful prosecution of the couple “reinforces the message that the country remains steadfast in its resolve to combat human trafficking and uphold the dignity and rights of all.”
It assured that the department and its partners in law enforcement and the judiciary remain dedicated “to pursuing justice for victims of trafficking and ensuring that perpetrators be held accountable under the law.”