Rescued minors in Cebu trafficking case get psychosocial support
LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu — Two minors rescued during an anti-trafficking operation in Cebu have been given psychosocial support and other protective services by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 7.
The agency provided assistance through its Recovery and Reintegration Program for Trafficked Persons, which supports survivors’ recovery and reintegration.
The children were rescued on May 24, 2026 by DSWD-7 and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Central Visayas after authorities acted on information received through the Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Helpline.
READ: NBI arrests American found with 2 minors inside Cebu City condo
DSWD-7 said social workers immediately processed the minors and provided emotional and social support to address their immediate needs.
Rescue operation
The rescue operation stemmed from a report alleging that a foreign national had been bringing several male minors into a condominium unit.
Earlier reports from the NBI said the foreign suspect was allegedly caught in flagrante delicto, or caught in the act, inside the condominium unit while with two boys aged 10 and 15.
Authorities noted that the foreigner was not related to either child by blood or marriage and that no other adult was present inside the unit when the operation was carried out.
The two minors were subsequently removed from the situation and placed under the custody of DSWD-7.
Suspect faces charges
Meanwhile, the suspect underwent inquest proceedings for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 7610, or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.
The law provides that a person found alone in a closed room with a minor who is not related to them, under circumstances suggesting possible sexual exploitation or abuse, may be prosecuted for attempted prostitution.
READ: Tisa buy-bust: Pregnant minor rescued, man arrested
Public urged to report cases
DSWD-7 has since urged the public to report suspected trafficking incidents through its TIP Helpline at 0917-703-0967.
The agency also encouraged residents to report cases involving violence against children through the MAKABATA Helpline 1383.
In a statement, DSWD-7 Regional Director Shalaine Marie S. Lucero said the agency remained committed to protecting vulnerable children and supporting survivors.
“The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 7 strongly condemns all criminal acts committed against vulnerable children. We remain steadfast in ensuring their protection and welfare, and we will see to it that those responsible are held fully accountable under the law,” Lucero said. / with a report from Lyle Andales
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