NBI Rescues Five Human Trafficking Victims, Arrests Two in Limay, Bataan Operation

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) successfully apprehended two individuals and rescued five victims, among them two minors, during a human trafficking raid at a restaurant and bar located in Limay, Bataan.

The operation conducted on September 3 was led by the NBI-Bataan District Office (BATADO) under the supervision of NBI Director Jaime Santiago. The raid followed intelligence reports indicating that the establishment was involved in offering women for entertainment and sexual services at a rate of ₱2,500.

Authorities arrested Regina Mae Tagulao, the manager of the bar, and Grazel De Vera, the cashier, both residents of Limay. They have been charged with qualified human trafficking under Republic Act 9208, as amended by Republic Acts 10364 and 11862, known as the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2022.

The rescued individuals include a female trafficking victim and a male minor deemed at risk. All victims were immediately placed under the care of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office in Limay and transferred to temporary shelters for protection and rehabilitation.

Tagulao and De Vera underwent inquest proceedings before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor in Bataan as the investigation continues.