2 nabbed, 17 women rescued in Angeles City anti-trafficking operations
CAMP OLIVAS, City of San Fernando, Pampanga – Two suspected female traffickers were arrested while 17 women were rescued in entrapment operations in Angeles City, Pampanga, the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) said yesterday.
PRO3 director Brig. Gen. Jean S. Fajardo said joint forces of the Regional Anti-Trafficking in Persons Task Group 3 (RATTG 3), Regional Mobile Force Battalion 3 (RMFB 3), Angeles City police and the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) of Angeles City launched the first operation on April 11, 2025 in Bgy. Pulung Maragul, Angeles City.
In the first police operation, suspect alias “Melissa,” 36, of Magalang, Pampanga, was caught offering women for sexual services in exchange for money. Twelve female victims were rescued on site.
After an hour on the same day, a follow-up sting at a nearby restaurant in the same barangay led to the arrest of another suspect, alias “Arianna,” of Macapagal Village, Mabalacat City. Rescued were five more female victims who were reportedly recruited and exploited for similar purposes.
The two suspects will be charged with violation of Republic Act 9208, as amended by RA 10364 or the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2012.
Medical and psychological assessments have been requested for both the victims and the suspects to support a case build-up and ensure the victims’ welfare.
Fajardo commended the swift and coordinated action of the operating teams.
“This is a clear message to those who prey on the vulnerable—your days are numbered. We will not rest until we rid our communities of this vile trade. I commend the dedication and diligence of our personnel and our partner agencies in protecting the dignity and rights of women and children,” Fajardo said.
