11/08/2026
PNP ARRESTS 58-YEAR-OLD MAN OVER ALLEGED ONLINE GROOMING OF MINOR IN CAGAYAN
A 58-year-old man was arrested by operatives of the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP ACG) in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, following a complaint involving alleged online grooming of a minor.
The suspect, identified only as alias โBentong,โ was apprehended during an entrapment operation conducted by the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit 2 (RACU 2) on August 2.
The operation was launched after the minorโs mother, alias โLinda,โ sought police assistance upon discovering a series of inappropriate and sexually suggestive messages allegedly sent by the suspect to her child. Authorities said the suspect continued communicating with the minor and allegedly attempted to arrange a personal meeting despite being informed that the recipient was underage.
Chief PNP Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said the operation underscores the importance of acting quickly when children are placed at risk online.
โKapag bata ang involved, we cannot afford to wait and see what happens next. We have to act early, protect the child, and hold accountable those who cross the line. We also remind parents and guardians to stay involved in their childrenโs online activities. If something feels wrong, report it immediately. Early reporting can prevent a situation from becoming more serious,โ PGen Nartatez said.
The suspect is facing charges for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 11930, or the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act; Republic Act No. 9208, or the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act; and Republic Act No. 7610, or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act, in relation to Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
The operation reflects the PNPโs continuing efforts to strengthen law enforcement in the digital space, particularly in protecting children from online exploitation. It is also aligned with the PNP Focused Agenda under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which emphasizes timely, coordinated, and intelligence-driven police action.
Under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the PNP remains committed to making law enforcement responsive to emerging threats while safeguarding those who are most vulnerable. These efforts form part of the Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdamanโwhere police action is not only timely, but also focused on protecting people and their rights.
(PNP-PIO)