Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) vowed to build strong charges after its Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC) rescued 18 minors in three separate operations on Feb. 18 and 19.

According to Philippines News Agency, the PNP's intensified campaign against online child sexual abuse and trafficking in persons also resulted in the arrest of a female Filipino suspect in Abuyog, Leyte on Feb. 19. This arrest is linked to a case referral involving the previous arrest of a 50-year-old Norwegian national for possession of child sexual abuse materials.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. stated, 'Our priority is always the safety and recovery of the victims. We ensure that rescued children are immediately placed under proper care.' He emphasized that the PNP is committed to building strong cases against perpetrators as part of their Focused Agenda, which aims to enhance the management of police operations for a faster, smarter, and more compassionate response.

The forensic examination of the Norwegian's mobile device revealed online communications, explicit content, and financial transactions linked to a local contact. During the operations, seven children were rescued in Leyte, and several digital devices, including mobile phones and a tablet with explicit video files involving minors, were recovered.

On the following day in Cagayan de Oro City, WCPC operatives rescued one female minor following a referral from the Philippine Internet Crimes Against Children Center. This operation was conducted in coordination with international law enforcement partners and with the support of local police units and social welfare offices.

In Tanauan City, Batangas, a rescue operation conducted by WCPC units and local police, in close coordination with the City Social Welfare and Development Office, led to the rescue of 10 minors believed to be victims of trafficking in persons. All rescued children are currently under the protective custody of social welfare authorities for psychosocial assessment and care.

Nartatez reaffirmed the PNP's unwavering commitment to child protection, stating, 'The protection of our children is non-negotiable. Hindi tayo titigil sa pagprotekta at pagbibigay hustisya para sa mga biktima (We will not stop protecting and providing justice for the victims).'