CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — Three Korean nationals were arrested in Barangay Anunas, Angeles City, after authorities allegedly uncovered an unauthorized online gaming operation involving two minors.
The operation stemmed from a request for assistance from the mothers of two teenage boys who were reportedly staying at and frequently visiting an apartment occupied by foreign nationals in the same barangay.
According to Police Station 4 of the Angeles City Police Office (ACPO), officers responded to the area at around 2:30 a.m. on Tuesday (June 16), and found one of the minors seated in front of a computer unit. Investigation revealed that the two boys, aged 16 and 17, were allegedly recruited by an individual known only by an alias and brought to the suspects.
Authorities said the minors were made to work overnight shifts from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., playing the online game Lineage Classic and meeting daily quotas for a reported wage of P500 per shift.
Investigators also discovered that the operation allegedly lacked the necessary business and employment permits. Several computer units were seized as evidence.
The three suspects were taken into custody and brought to Police Station 4 for documentation and further investigation, while another individual identified only by an alias remains at large.
The suspects may face charges for alleged violations of Republic Act 9208, as amended by Republic Act 10364, and Republic Act 7610.
PRO3 Director P/Brig. Gen. Jess B. Mendez reiterated the PNP’s commitment to protecting children from exploitation and trafficking, emphasizing that offenders will be held accountable regardless of nationality or status.
“The Philippine National Police remains steadfast in safeguarding the welfare and rights of children. We commend the swift action of our personnel and encourage the public to report any form of child exploitation, trafficking, or abuse. Anyone who exploits minors will face the full force of the law, regardless of nationality or status,” PBGen. Mendez said. (UniNews Online)
