MANILA — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) arrested a woman and rescued several minors allegedly being exploited as sex workers during a raid at a spa in Davao City.

Operatives from the NBI–Southern Mindanao Regional Office (NBI-SEMRO) conducted an entrapment operation at Heaven Personal Massage Spa along Jacinto Street, which led to the arrest of Ramelyn Cemene Sumodong, also known as “Madam Ram.”

Authorities said Sumodong was apprehended for violating Republic Act No. 10364, the “Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2012,” in relation to Republic Act No. 7610, or the “Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act.”

The operation stemmed from a report by the victim’s mother and grandmother, who sought help after learning that the victim had traveled to Davao City to work at the spa and discovered that minors were being used as sex workers.

An undercover SEMRO agent posed as a customer and negotiated with Sumodong, who allegedly offered minors for sexual services for ₱3,500. After the transaction was confirmed, agents immediately arrested the suspect.

Sumodong was brought to the NBI-SEMRO office for booking and further investigation. Evidence gathered during the operation has been secured for prosecution.

The rescued minors were turned over to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for debriefing, medical examination, psychosocial intervention, and temporary protective custody.

NBI-SEMRO said it coordinated with DSWD, child protection units, and local authorities to ensure the victims receive comprehensive care.