The personnel of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) rescued 10 youths, including 2 pregnant women, who were illegally employed in a fishing ground in Sual, Pangasinan. The place is run by Chinese nationals.
According to the report, nine of the victims were minors, and the youngest was 12 years old while the oldest was 17 years old. A 13-year-old and another 17-year-old victim were also found to be pregnant.
The NBI also showed the media 5 suspects caught in the operation—three Filipinos and two Chinese. They have been charged with qualified trafficking, violation of child labor, Fisheries Code of the Philippines, and economic sabotage.
According to NBI Deputy Director Atty. Ferdinand Lavin, they are still investigating who the owner of the fishery is. It is possible that this violated laws regarding the economy and livelihood of the country.
The NBI is also coordinating with the LGU of Sual, Pangasinan for further action and protection of the child victims.
