2 girls, 14, nabbed for human trafficking

MANILA, Philippines — Agents of the National Bureau of Investigation arrested two 14-year-old girls for their alleged involvement in trafficking fellow minors for sex, during an NBI sting in Novaliches, Quezon City.

The operation, conducted by the NBI Special Action Unit at a resort, led to the rescue of 11 students, including two boys, and a 19-year-old who were allegedly being offered for sexual services through online platforms.

Investigators said the two girls recruited their fellow students and arranged meetings with clients in exchange for money. The customers allegedly selected their victims through photographs sent online before doing a meet-up.

Both girls reportedly charged their clients at least P3,500 for sexual services.

Despite the illegal activity, the NBI said the two minors could not be criminally charged, citing Republic Act 9344 or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act.

The minors were turned over to the custody of the Quezon City Social Welfare and Development Department as children in conflict with the law.

They are undergoing psychosocial counseling under the Department of Social Welfare and Development before their release to their families.