Lawyer arrested for child abuse, human trafficking

Lawyer Michel P. Molino was apprehended in Zamboanga City on March 26 for alleged online sexual abuse of children and human trafficking.

The arrest was a result of a joint operation by the NBI and DOJ, supported by the PAOCC and Exodus Philippines, under the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking.

During the operation, three minors were rescued from Molino's residence, and six additional victims were identified.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) stated that Molino's exploitation of children may have started in 2012, with recovered data suggesting his collection and production of child abuse materials could date back to 2002.

Molino faces multiple charges, including violations of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children Act, Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act, and the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act.

The rescued minors have been placed under the care of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).