Photo credit: IACAT

Authorities have arrested Atty. Michael P. Molina—a certified public accountant, lawyer, and realtor—over allegations of child exploitation in Zamboanga City.

Molina was taken into custody following a joint operation led by the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT), the Department of Justice - Office of Cybercrime (DOJ-OOC), and the National Bureau of Investigation’s Human Trafficking Division (NBI-HTRAD), with support from the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC).

The investigation, which involved extensive cyber-surveillance, led to the rescue of three minors from Molina’s premises. Authorities also identified six other victims, some of whom are now adults, all believed to have suffered sexual abuse. Initial findings suggest that Molina’s activities may have begun as early as 2012, with some recovered data indicating possible exploitation dating back to 2002.

The rescued minors are now in the custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), while forensic experts continue to examine Molina’s seized electronic devices for further evidence.

Molina now faces serious charges under multiple laws, including the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act, and the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act. If convicted, he could face severe penalties.

Authorities are urging the public to stay vigilant and report any suspected cases of child exploitation to the DOJ, NBI, or local law enforcement. This case serves as a stark reminder that no one is above the law, and justice will be served for the victims.