16-year-old girl rescued

PALO, Leyte — A 16-year-old girl who was recruited to work as an entertainer in a bar was rescued following a call to the 911 emergency hotline on 1 November in Barangay Guindapunan, Palo, Leyte.

The Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8) said initial investigation showed that the minor had traveled from Agusan del Sur to Leyte on 30 October with two female companions in search of employment.

The minor reportedly misrepresented her age to qualify for work as an entertainer at a local establishment.

However, when she later expressed her desire to return home, her companions allegedly prevented her from leaving, citing an outstanding debt.

The emergency hotline is part of PRO-8’s S.A.F.E. Eastern Visayas: DIAL 911 campaign under the leadership of regional director Police Brig. Gen. Romano Cardiño.

The Palo Municipal Police Station immediately dispatched personnel to the area and coordinated with the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) for appropriate intervention.

The MSWDO also established contact with the minor’s father through a video call and informed him of the situation.

Cardiño emphasized the importance of the 911 emergency hotline in facilitating prompt police response and coordination with concerned government agencies, particularly in cases involving minors and other vulnerable individuals.