Bacolod City sounds alarm over 'alarming' online child sexual exploitation

BACOLOD CITY—The incidence of online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC) in this city has reached "alarming levels," with authorities rescuing 10 minors over the past two months and intensifying a manhunt for the alleged masterminds behind the operations, a city official said Thursday. Richelle Verdeprado-Mangga, head of the Bacolod City Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), said the rising number of OSAEC cases is a grave concern for the city. "We are seeing a very alarming trend in online sexual exploitation of children. Our recent operations have led to the rescue of 10 minors in just two months," Verdeprado-Mangga stated. She added that the city government, in coordination with law enforcement agencies, is working tirelessly to identify and apprehend those responsible for these heinous crimes. "We are intensifying our efforts to track down and arrest the alleged masterminds who are orchestrating these online exploitation rings. This is a priority for us to ensure the safety and protection of our children," she said. The DSWD official also highlighted the importance of community involvement and public awareness in combating OSAEC. "We urge parents, guardians, and the community at large to be vigilant and report any suspicious online activities involving children. Together, we can create a safer online environment for our youth," Verdeprado-Mangga appealed. The Philippines has been grappling with the issue of OSAEC, with various agencies and organizations working to raise awareness and strengthen preventive measures. The country's geographical location and the increasing internet penetration have made it a target for online predators.