GABRIELA Partylist Representative Arlene Brosas decried delays and lapses in the implementation of the Anti-Child Abuse Law in the country, expressing concern over acts of child sexual abuse and exploitation committed by a certified public accountant, lawyer, and realtor who was arrested in Zamboanga City.

These acts, including child exploitation and the production of child pornography by suspect Michael Molina, were determined to have begun as early as 2002.

“While the recent arrest of this serial child abuser is welcome, it begs the question: why must it take over 20 years for a perpetrator of this scale to face justice in the Philippines?” Brosas asked.

Molina now faces multiple charges under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act, and the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act—laws principally authored by Gabriela Partylist.

“Up to 9 children were victimized, and 6 of them are now legal adults due to the prolonged delay in the case. This shows the extent to which authorities still fail to implement existing anti-OSAEC and anti-trafficking laws,” Brosas stated.

“This case should serve as a wake-up call. More than having laws, serious implementation is key to ensuring the safety of our children. Authorities must also be held accountable for the slow enforcement of abuse laws,” the lawmaker continued.

“The pursuit of justice and healing does not stop with the perpetrator’s arrest,” expressed Sarah Elago, 1st nominee of Gabriela Partylist and the organization’s vice-chairperson.

Elago also called for urgent services and care for the victims and their families, as the child victims are now in the custody of the DSWD.

“Let us not allow justice to be delayed further. We call for Mr. Molina to face the full force of the law for his heinous crimes at the swiftest possible time,” Elago stressed.