Manila: Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros has filed a resolution seeking an investigation into allegations of child abuse and mismanagement at a shelter in Mexico, Pampanga, where 156 children reportedly suffered.

According to Philippines News Agency, in Senate Resolution No. 77, Hontiveros urged the Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality to examine incidents involving Pastor Jeremy Keith Ferguson. He is accused of inflicting physical injury, emotional and psychological abuse, and engaging in acts detrimental to children's development.

A complaint by two 12-year-old boys and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) claims Ferguson forced children to kneel for extended periods, provided them spoiled food, and denied them playtime. Additionally, the DSWD identified violations of registration and accreditation standards, fire hazards, and financial mismanagement, leading to a 30-day cease and desist order against the facility operated by the New Life Baptist Church, Inc.

Hontiveros emphasized the need to review laws such as Republic Act 7610, which aims to protect children against abuse, exploitation, and discrimination, to ensure enhanced safeguards for minors in social welfare facilities. She highlighted the urgency of addressing gaps in oversight mechanisms, stating that the situation calls for a comprehensive review of accreditation, monitoring, and regulation processes to prevent future abuses.

On Sunday, the Bureau of Immigration announced the preparation of deportation proceedings against the 48-year-old Ferguson. He was arrested on August 13 by Central Luzon police and agents from the Pampanga Police Provincial Office's Women and Children's Protection Desk. BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado stated that Ferguson would be expelled from the Philippines after facing legal proceedings, underscoring that foreign nationals who harm locals will encounter the full force of the law.