In response to the alarming surge in cases of Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) in the Davao Region, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office XI through Gladys A. Credo, the Recovery and Reintegration for Trafficked Persons (RRTP) focal person urged citizens and victims to promptly report any instances of human trafficking, particularly OSAEC, through the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) in a radio interview at the Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR) on May 3, 2024.
“Since last year, in OSAEC alone, adunay 18 na cases. Ang uban ani hantod karon active ang kaso, ug naa sila sa Home for Girls and Women for protective custody. In the 1st quarter of this year, we have 5 new cases,” (Since last year, there have been 18 reported cases of OSAEC alone. Some of them still have active cases and are currently housed in the Home for Girls and Women for protective custody. In the 1st quarter of this year, we have recorded 5 new cases), Credo said.
Credo emphasized the urgent need for action in response to the escalating number of active OSAEC cases. These cases are reported through various channels, including referrals, walk-ins, rescue, and entrapment operations, highlighting the pervasive nature of the issue.
“Kami naga intensify sa amoang advocacy pinaagi niini aron kita makapadayag sa atoang mga ginikanan sa komunidad na pahugutan ang pag-monitor sa online activities sa ilahang mga anak. Kana laging hayluhon ug kwarta, unya makigkita dayon didto na ang pagpangabuso, while gina abuso gina video,” (We are intensifying our advocacy efforts to inform parents within the community to monitor their children’s online activities strictly. Perpetrators often lure children with money, arrange meetings, and then abuse and record the abuse), added Credo.
Discussing the tactics employed by perpetrators, Credo elaborated on how minors are targeted online, with perpetrators gaining their trust through chat platforms before coercing them into providing compromising images. Shockingly, reported cases revealed that a significant portion of these perpetrators are family members, exacerbating the trauma experienced by victims.
Citizens are urged to utilize the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) mobile hotline at 09667110356, a vital resource for individuals to seek help and report cases of exploitation. Additionally, the broadcast shed light on the support and rehabilitation services offered to rescued victims. From psychological interventions to educational and medical assistance, the RRTP ensures comprehensive care for survivors, facilitating their recovery and reintegration into society.
With continued awareness, vigilance, and collaborative action, the department aims to create a safer and more secure environment for all, especially children. (DSWD FO XI/LJSB/EMCJr)
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