Despite the adverse weather conditions over the past week, the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP ACG) remained relentless in its efforts to combat online abuse. From July 22 to 23, 2025, the PNP ACG conducted five entrapment operations across the country, targeting individuals involved in various forms of cyber abuse against women, which resulted in the arrest of five suspects and rescue of their victims from potential harm and coercion.

These operations were carried out by the different Regional Anti Cybercrime Units and Provincial Cyber Response Teams in Tuguegarao City, Paniqui, Tarlac; Daraga, Albay; Canelar, Zamboanga City; and Butuan City, Agusan del Norte.

Most of the cases involved the use of explicit images or videos to blackmail victims, threatening to release these photos and videos unless certain demands were met. One suspect used it to extort money, while others used them to harass or manipulate the victims emotionally. In many of the incidents, the suspects were personally acquainted with the victims, often ex-partners motivated by revenge, frustration, or anger.

All suspects are now facing charges under various provisions of the Revised Penal Code, including Article 294 (Robbery with Violence or Intimidation of Persons), Article 286 (Grave Coercion), and Article 282 (Grave Threats). Additionally, those found to have distributed nude images or videos without the victims’ consent will be charged under Republic Act 9995 (Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009), in relation to Section 6 of RA No. 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.)

This operation supports the directive of Police General Nicolas D. Torre III, PNP Chief, to ensure that anti-cybercrime laws are fully implemented and violators are promptly penalized.

Brigadier General Bernard R. Yang, Acting Director of the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group, commended all operating units for the successful operations. He also stated, “Using intimate content to threaten or exploit others is a grave offense. The PNP ACG remains firm in its mission to protect victims and ensure that abusers are held accountable. We urge everyone to speak out, report these crimes, and help break the cycle of online harassment.”