8 people rescued from human trafficking at Bongao port | Notre-Dame Broadcasting Company

CAMP SK PENDATUN, Maguindanao Norte – Eight people were rescued at Bongao Seaport, Brgy. Poblacion, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi following the rapid response of the combined forces of PNP personnel from 1st SOU MG (lead unit), 1st Tawi Tawi PMFC, Sea Marshall-SWM unit, Central Station the Coast Guard, Tawi-Tawi together with PCTC-WMPO, NICA BARMM, in coordination with LGU-LCAT VAWC of the Municipal Inter-Agency Anti-Trafficking Committee (MIACAT) Bongao at approximately 7:00 p.m. on May 30, 2024.

Acting on information from a concerned citizen, law enforcement learned of an unidentified group traveling on board the vessel POSO AK4 from Jolo, Sulu to Bongao, Tawi-Tawi. The group was believed to have planned to travel to Semporna, Malaysia, but did not present any legal documents.

The rescued persons were placed in the custody of the LGU LCAT VAWC of MIACAT and the Department of Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) for further assessment and support.

The officers' diligence and collaboration with other authorities in the fight against human trafficking was praised by PBGEN PREXY D TANGGAWOHN, Acting Regional Director of PRO BAR. The Regional Director further reiterates PRO BAR's commitment to the defense of human rights and the fight against illegal trafficking.