MANILA, Philippines— Authorities arrested lawyer, certified public accountant, and realtor Michael P. Molina in a joint operation on charges of human trafficking and child exploitation.

In a report from Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking, it said that Molina was apprehended following an extensive cyber-surveillance and intelligence operation. 

Authorities rescued three minors from his premises and identified six additional victims, some of whom are now adults, in Zamboanga City.

Preliminary findings indicate that his alleged exploitation of children may have started in 2012, with forensic data suggesting possible involvement in such activities as early as 2002.

Seized devices are undergoing further forensic examination. The rescued minors are now under the care of the DSWD.

Molina is facing multiple charges under several Philippine laws, including the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act (R.A. 9208, as amended), the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act (R.A. 11930), and the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act (R.A. 7610).