Mexico, Pampanga — Authorities arrested an American pastor and rescued 156 children from alleged abuse at the New Life Baptist Church of Mexico, Pampanga Inc. (NLBCMPI) last Wednesday.

The suspect was identified as Pastor Jeremy Ferguson, who is facing multiple charges of violating Republic Act 7610, also known as the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Philippine National Police conducted the rescue. The children, 78 boys and 78 girls, were taken to the Reception and Study Center for Children in Lubao, Pampanga.

The DSWD discovered unsanitary and degrading conditions at the facility, which had a barbed-wire gate, tight sleeping quarters, dirty bathrooms and fire hazards.

The rescued children said they experienced physical, verbal and psychological abuse.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian issued a cease-and-desist order against the NLBCMPI, which was served by personnel from the Field Office 3, headed by Regional Director Venus Rebuldela.

The church is also facing charges of mismanagement of funds, improper case management and noncompliance with DSWD standards for registration, licensing and accreditation.

“We will be filing criminal cases against Pastor Ferguson based on the complaints of children who have experienced physical, verbal and psychological abuse while under his custody,” Gatchalian said.