08/10/2026
PNP ACTS ON ALLEGED DIGITAL ABUSE, ARRESTS US NATIONAL IN DAVAO
Under the leadership of PGen Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Chief, Philippine National Police (PNP), police authorities arrested a 33-year-old United States national in Davao City in connection with alleged violations involving coercion, the unauthorized sharing of private images, and violence against women and their children, in relation to the Cybercrime Prevention Act.
The suspect was arrested on October 7, 2026, during an entrapment operation conducted by personnel of the concerned Davao City police units and the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit 11.
Recovered from the suspect were a mobile phone, a laptop computer, and a United States passport. The electronic devices will be subjected to appropriate examination and documentation in accordance with established procedures.
The suspect was brought to the appropriate police office for booking, documentation, and proper disposition.
Chief PNP PGen Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. emphasized that police action must be firm while remaining grounded on law and due process, particularly in cases involving sensitive personal and digital information.
“The digital space should not become a place where people feel powerless or unprotected. When there is a reported violation, our personnel must be ready to respond, investigate, and act within the law. We want the public to know that they can seek help and expect a proper police response,” PGen Nartatez said.
The operation is part of the PNP’s continuing implementation of its Focused Agenda, particularly Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which calls for coordinated, responsive, and law-based police action against emerging forms of criminality, including offenses facilitated through digital platforms.
The PNP also continues to strengthen its efforts to protect individuals from abuse, coercion, and exploitation, consistent with the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and its commitment to public safety, justice, and the protection of vulnerable sectors.
The PNP reminds the public to promptly report suspected cases of abuse, coercion, or the unauthorized dissemination of private images to the proper authorities and, whenever possible, preserve relevant digital evidence that may assist investigators.
These efforts remain part of the PNP’s commitment to the Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.
(PNP-PIO)