Trafficker imprisoned for life for online child sexual abuse
BULACAN, Philippines — A 27-year-old trafficker faces life in prison after offering to livestream the sexual abuse of two minors in exchange for money.
Moreover, a court in Malolos City imposed a ₱2 million fine on the criminal and ordered him to pay the victims ₱1 million in moral damages.
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On February 10, 2025, the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 18 of Malolos City convicted the perpetrator on two counts of qualified trafficking in persons.
The International Justice Mission (IJM) reports that the trafficker was a neighbor and family friend of the victims.
This case originated from an investigation into Timothy Lane, a convicted Australian who was caught with child sexual abuse and exploitation material (CSAEM) on his phone.
Authorities discovered online transactions between Lane and individuals in the Philippines, including the 27-year-old trafficker.
The latter used a fake female identity on Facebook to arrange payments for livestreamed abuse of minors.
After receiving intelligence from the Australian Federal Police (AFP), Philippine authorities identified, investigated, and arrested the suspect quickly in June 2023.
“Together, we must intensify our efforts to dismantle the networks of human traffickers that target our most vulnerable children,” Bulacan Senior Assistant Provincial Prosecutor Alejandro G. Ramos stated.
“Our unified commitment to this cause strengthens the protective shield around those who cannot defend themselves,” he said.
“Their freedom is our responsibility. Their safety, our collective victory,” Ramos emphasized.
In 2022, Congress enacted the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and the Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act, along with the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act.
To report suspected online child sexual exploitation, contact the Philippine National Police – Women and Children Protection Center at 0966-725-5961 (Globe) and 0919-777-7377 (Smart).
