2 sisters rescued from alleged sex exploitation; mother identified as suspect

MANILA — The National Bureau of Investigation has rescued two sisters, aged 20 and four, in Taguig City following an investigation into the alleged online sexual exploitation of the victims, with their own mother identified as the suspect.

The NBI Violence Against Women and Children Division (VAWCD) arrested the suspect for allegedly producing and selling sexually explicit photos and videos of her daughters online.

NBI Director Atty. Melvin Matibag said the investigation stemmed from information provided by the United States Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), which helped authorities track down the suspect and rescue the younger victim.

Matibag said that the NBI received information from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and other international law enforcement partners regarding the suspect’s alleged distribution and sale of illegal materials online.

The NBI chief said the investigation uncovered indications that the alleged abuse of the older victim began when she was only 12 years old.

Matibag warned that online sexual exploitation can inflict lasting psychological and emotional harm on victims, even when there is no direct physical contact.

He urged the public to help protect children from online sexual abuse and exploitation.

The two victims are now under the care of the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

The suspect will face charges for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 11930, or the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act.