DOJ indicts man selling explicit content online

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Justice (DOJ) filed charges against an individual “promoting and offering” explicit content of minors online.

On Tuesday, the DOJ said that the individual, known as Bench Ortillano, violated Anti-Online Sexual Abuse of Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act. The charges were filed before the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija.

According to the DOJ, the individual allegedly provides buyers with CSAEM in Nueva Ecija and was found to be “promoting explicit content” and offering “discounts” for access to the said materials in a “VIP” Telegram channel.

Further investigation also uncovered Ortillano's role in managing minor models and distributing illicit materials via his Telegram channel, according to the Justice department.

The agency said that Ortillano openly disclosed the availability of explicit materials that people could access if they paid P499 through mobile wallet, GCash.

Upon payment, agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) received a link from Ortillano, leading to explicit videos, including footage of him engaging in sexual acts with minors.

The evidence found by the NBI agents, along with a Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data warrant issued by Manila City's RTC Branch 4, led to Ortillano's arrest.

After a thorough review of the case, the DOJ said that it confirmed that Ortillano's arrest was valid and carried out in full compliance with the Revised Rule on Criminal Procedure.

"This decisive action underscores our unwavering commitment to protecting children from online exploitation. This sends a clear message to perpetrators that justice will prevail, and the law will be enforced to its fullest extent,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said in a statement.