Man arrested for cyberstalking, sending indecent messages to teen in Pasig
A 41-year-old man was arrested in Pasig City for allegedly cyberstalking a then 17-year-old girl by repeatedly sending her indecent messages and videos and offering money in exchange for sexual favors.
The suspect was arrested during an entrapment operation by the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) on March 15, following the complaint filed against him by the victim.
According to PNP-ACG Acting Director Brig. Gen. Wilson Asueta, the harassment started in August 2022 when the suspect sent indecent messages to the minor victim through social media.
He added that the alleged cyberstalking lasted for several years, during which the suspect continued to harass the victim by sending indecent messages and offering money in exchange for sexual favors.
Authorities said the victim tried to block the suspect, however, the man reestablished contact months later and sent another lewd video, along with an offer of P5,000, which reportedly later increased to P10,000 on Feb. 26 this year.
“The victim was subjected to cyber-stalking since 2022 until now. So through messaging, the suspect usually sent indecent messages, mga bastos na message, then offering sexual offers,” Asueta said.
Due to continuous harassment, the victim decided to report to the police and filed a complaint, which led to the suspect’s arrest.
The suspect is now in police custody and is facing charges under the Safe Spaces Act, or gender-based online sexual harassment, and grave coercion, in connection with provisions of the Cybercrime Prevention Act.
Meanwhile, in line with the celebration of Women’s Month, authorities reminded the public to remain vigilant and report any violations to authorities to hold offenders accountable and protect the rights and dignity of everyone. They emphasized that no form of harassment, whether online or in person, should be ignored.