Police arrested an 18-year-old man from Antique over the alleged sexual exploitation and harassment of his 17-year-old girlfriend.
Operatives of the Antique Provincial Cyber Response Team (PCRT) of the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) conducted an entrapment operation and identified the suspect as alias “Robert” of San Jose de Buenavista, Antique.
He was arrested after the minor victim, accompanied by her guardian, sought police assistance over threats involving her intimate images and videos.
Investigation showed that the suspect allegedly groomed and manipulated the victim into a romantic relationship. During their relationship, he asked permission to record their intimate encounter using the victim’s mobile phone, which she allowed under the belief that the recording would remain private.
On 16 August 2026, an argument between the two reportedly led to the suspect threatening to share the intimate videos with others.
Further investigation established that he had allegedly gained unauthorized access to the victim’s iCloud account, allowing him to access the intimate recordings stored there.
Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief P/Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. underscored that the case demonstrated how digital evidence can help law enforcement identify and apprehend individuals who exploit technology to victimize children.
“The PNP will remain relentless in pursuing offenders who use technology to threaten, manipulate, or exploit children. Every piece of digital evidence matters in building cases and protecting victims,” Nartatez said.
He added that the operation also reflects the PNP’s Focused Agenda, particularly its priority on Integrity Monitoring, as the organization strengthens accountability and responsible action in addressing emerging threats in the digital environment.
The suspect is facing charges for violation of Article 286 (Grave Coercion) of the Revised Penal Code and Section 4 of Republic Act No. 11930, or the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act of 2022, both in relation to Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
Nartatez also urged victims and their families to immediately seek police assistance when faced with online threats or exploitation.
“Hindi dapat maging kasangkapan ang teknolohiya sa pananakot at pagsasamantala sa mga menor de edad. Pananagutin natin ang sinumang gagamit nito upang takutin o kontrolin ang isang bata,” he said.
Nartatez said the arrest highlights the PNP’s resolve to protect children from technology-enabled sexual exploitation and ensure that perpetrators face the consequences of their actions.
