Two alleged victims of human trafficking were rescued by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) while onboard a ship in Tawi-Tawi. Lieutenant Commander Algier Ricafrent, PCG spokesman, said that Coast Guard Station-Bongao received a report that two teenagers – Remelyn Ponce, 18 and Roselyn Ponce, 16 – who were reportedly victims of human trafficking, were held onboard MV TrishaKerstin-2 while en route to Bongao, Tawi Tawi on April 10.

Further investigation disclosed that the girls, who left home without the knowledge of their families, were promised jobs as domestic helpers in Malaysia. Upon learning of the incident, Ponce’s mother sought assistance from the Coast Guard.

Meanwhile, five persons were arrested in separate anti-illegal drugs operations in Quezon City since Friday afternoon. Investigators of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) identified the arrested suspects as Mary Jane Obarra, 39; Danilo Fernando Sr., 52; Theresa Cruz, 43; Gilbert Cruz, 22; and Aldrin Rivera, 22.

Source: http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/357065/rescued