Lawmen have arrested five individuals allegedly engaged in online child pornography and rescued three minors during a raid in Lower Bicutan, Taguig City.
Arrested were Shaira Candaza, Girlie Candaza, Estrellita Candaza, Mary Rose Reyes, and Mary Grace Cahanding. They are now detained at the Taguig City Jail.
The suspects were charged with violations of Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003; Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012; Anti-Child Pornography Act of 2009; Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009; and the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 before the city prosecutors office.
The raid was conducted by agents of the National Bureau of Investigation Anti-Human Trafficking Division in close coordination with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Inter-Agency Council Against Human Trafficking, the International Justice Mission, and the city government of Taguig.
The FBI informed the Philippine authorities about the illegal activities of the group at No. 27 MRT Avenue in Barangay Lower Bicutan, saying the group had been engaging foreigners for webcam online sexual activities and meet-ups for sexual acts for a fee.
The suspects, who have been using the username “pretty.mirth,” agreed to meet with undercover NBI agents, resulting in their arrest and the rescue of the three victims of the syndicate.
Taguig City Mayor Laarni Cayetano lauded the arrest and the rescue of three minors, aged between five to 11 years old, who are now in the protective custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development.
“We will not stop until they are all held accountable. At the same time, I am urging the public to help us and the national government in the fight against cybersex operations. Be vigilant and be a concerned community member. Let us know, report to authorities if there are suspicious characters in your community,” Cayetano said.