PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group Arrests Suspect in Online Child Abuse Case, Urges Parental Vigilance

The Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) has reiterated the importance of parental supervision over children's social media use following the arrest of a suspect involved in the sexual exploitation of a minor.

During a press briefing on November 21, 2025, ACG Director Brigadier General Wilson Asueta revealed that a 39-year-old man was apprehended after an entrapment operation conducted on November 19 in Sariaya, Quezon. The suspect is accused of sexually abusing a 16-year-old student whom he initially contacted through social media in September.

Asueta explained that the perpetrator lured the victim to his residence by promising a payment of PHP 200. Once there, sexual abuse transpired, and unbeknownst to the victim, the encounter was recorded in its entirety.

About two months later, in November, the suspect attempted to coerce the victim into revisiting his home by threatening to share the explicit video with one of her friends. This threat prompted swift police intervention.

"He pressured the victim to return to his home and engage in sexual acts, threatening to distribute the video if she did not comply. This led to immediate police action," Asueta stated.

The suspect faces multiple charges, including violations of the Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009, Grave Coercion, the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act, the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children law, Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act, and the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

Asueta emphasized the critical role of parents and guardians in safeguarding minors online, urging them to educate children about online predators, discourage the sharing of intimate images, and monitor internet activity closely.

"The most important step is to report such incidents immediately to the nearest police station or the ACG’s cybercrime response team anywhere in the Philippines," Asueta urged.

He further highlighted the necessity of guidance and monitoring, stating, "We must not leave children alone to navigate online platforms. Teaching them about online safety and supervising their daily internet use is essential to protect our youth."