A late-night police operation in Batangas dismantled an online exploitation hub and freed young women from digital abuse, underscoring the firm stance of the Philippine National Police against cyber-enabled trafficking.

PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said the intensified anti-cybercrime drive led to the arrest of a foreign national and the rescue of seven trafficking victims in a single, coordinated operation.

On January 30, 2026, at around 10:00 p.m. in Nasugbu, Batangas, operatives of the Southern District Anti-Cybercrime Team implemented a Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data (WSSECD) against a suspected cybersex den. The operation resulted in the arrest of a 27-year-old American national for facilitating online sexual exploitation and the rescue of seven female victims who were trafficked and exploited through live-streamed cybersex activities.

Digital devices used in the illegal operation were confiscated at the scene and are now undergoing forensic examination.

The arrested suspect is facing charges for violations of Republic Act No. 9208, or the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003, as amended by Republic Act Nos. 10364 and 11862, in relation to Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

Authorities said the case highlights the evolving nature of trafficking crimes, where abuse is carried out through online platforms while victims are physically concealed within local communities.

Nartatez said the successful operation reflects the PNP Focused Agenda, particularly its priority on enhanced police operations that emphasize intelligence-driven actions, lawful cyber operations, and the protection of vulnerable individuals from technology-facilitated crimes.

“Cyber-enabled trafficking is a grave crime that preys on vulnerability and hides behind technology, but the PNP will continue to pursue offenders wherever they operate—online or on the ground. Hindi natin hahayaang gamitin ang teknolohiya para sirain ang dangal at kinabukasan ng ating mga kababayan,” the PNP chief said.

He stressed that victim rescue and strong case build-up remain paramount. “Our priority is always the safety of the victims and the strength of the cases we file in court, ensuring accountability under the law. Mahalaga na ang mga biktima ay mailigtas, mapangalagaan, at mabigyan ng hustisya,” he added.