636 children rescued from exploitation — PNP

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Sunday reported it has rescued a total of 636 children victimized by exploitation since 2022.

PNP chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil touted the success of police operations against child exploitation.

“These operations, aimed at dismantling illegal networks targeting vulnerable children, reflect the PNP's firm commitment to the ongoing fight against child exploitation as ordered by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.,” he said.

Meanwhile, Marbil noted one of the most disturbing cases in child exploitation was the story of a four-month-old baby who was sold on the dark web by his mother and aunt—who were later apprehended in an operation in Taguig City.

The PNP chief stressed the police’s commitment to fully implement Republic Act 11930, also known as the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) law, which was passed two years ago.

Among the 636 rescued children were 375 girls and 121 boys—all 17 years old or younger.

Marbil said the PNP has conducted 307 operations targeting OSAEC-related crimes since 2022, with 145 operations carried out just this year.

He noted that these efforts have led to the arrest of 167 suspects, the filing of 218 cases, and 12 convictions to date.

Further, Marbil commended the efforts of the PNP’s Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC)—which has been at the forefront of rescue operations and case build-up efforts.

He also acknowledged the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) for intensifying its online entrapment operations “to track down and arrest offenders exploiting children through digital platforms.”

Marbil likewise stressed the growing role of technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), in boosting investigative efforts.

“AI-powered tools are transforming the way we solve crimes and rescue victims, especially in cases involving the dark web. These technologies enable us to analyze vast amounts of data, identify suspects with greater precision, and swiftly respond to emerging threats,” he said.

He then cited how AI-assisted investigations have led to quicker identification of perpetrators, resulting in timely rescues and successful prosecutions.

Marbil called on the public to remain vigilant and proactive in reporting suspected cases of child exploitation.

“We urge every Filipino to take part in this fight. Protecting our children is a shared responsibility, and by working together, we can ensure their safety and well-being,” he said.

Marbil vowed the PNP will continue to strengthen its partnerships with local and international organizations in its efforts to disrupt trafficking networks, as well as leverage advanced technologies to deliver justice and protect the nation’s children.