Alleged sex trafficker nabbed, 16 rescued

MANILA, Philippines — A suspected sex trafficker was arrested and 16 victims, including four minors, were rescued by police in Caloocan City on Thursday.

Raymond Falcotelo was nabbed in an entrapment operation conducted by operatives of the city police Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC) at a resort along Old Zabarte Road in Barangay 175.

Investigation showed that Falcotelo organized a birthday party for a police officer, who posed as a client.

WCPC director Chief Superintendent William Macavinta said the suspect offered 16 women for sexual services in exchange for up to P5,000 each.

Police nabbed Falcotelo shortly after he received the marked money from the police officer.

Macavinta said the suspect has been offering girls for sexual services for two years.

Falcotelo threatened to expose his victims on social media if they refused to have sex with customers, according to Macavinta.

The suspect is being held by police on charges of violating Republic Act 10364 or the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act.