ORMOC CITY — A 55-year-old American national is now in police custody after being arrested on allegations of violating the Anti-Child Abuse Law following a complaint involving three minors brought to a resort in Higatangan Island, Naval in Biliran.
Police identified the suspect, known by the alias “Mike,” a resident of Naval, who was detained after authorities responded to a report that the minors were allegedly taken to the island without the consent of their guardians.
The victims were identified as two 14-year-old girls and a 13-year-old girl, all residents of Biliran province. The complainants include the aunt and mother of two of the minors, who raised concern over their safety after learning they had been brought to a stay-in accommodation.
Based on police reports submitted to PRO-8, the complainants went to the Naval Municipal Police Station on Saturday morning, April 18, prompting authorities to launch an immediate verification and rescue operation.
Personnel from the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD), the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO), and local government units proceeded to Higatangan Island, where they confirmed the presence of the minors at a resort identified as Ewort’s Home Stay in Barangay Libertad.
Authorities said the establishment owner confirmed that the minors were staying with a foreign national.
The suspect was arrested for alleged violation of Section 10(b) of Republic Act 7610, or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act. He is currently detained at the Naval Municipal Police Station pending further investigation and legal proceedings.
Meanwhile, the minors have been turned over to the custody of the WCPD for proper care and protection.
(ROBERT DEJON)
