The government's anti human trafficking arm, the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT), reached another milestone as it secured the conviction of a known human trafficker from Makati. This marks the 100th person convicted for the violation of Republic Act 9208 of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003.

In a decision dated September 24 2012, the Regional Trial Court of Makati City found Helen Lapena, manager of Lovely Rose Karaoke Bar, guilty beyond reasonable doubt of harboring, providing, and receiving six minors (15yrs – 17 yrs old) for the purpose of prostitution and sexual exploitation. She was convicted of qualified human trafficking with a penalty of life imprisonment and a fine of P2 million.

Read more: IACAT Marks Conviction of 100th Human Trafficker