MANILA – The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has arrested a 19-year-old man in Pampanga for allegedly enticing minors online to produce child sexual abuse or exploitation materials through the gaming platform Roblox.

In a statement, the NBI said operatives from its Violence Against Women and Children Division (NBI-VAWCD) arrested the suspect on June 30 for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 11930, or the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act.

The operation stemmed from a referral by the Department of Justice–Office of Cybercrime involving reports that a child had been lured online into producing child sexual abuse or exploitation materials.

According to the NBI, investigators found that the suspect allegedly persuaded a minor to engage in sexual activity and send sexually exploitative images in exchange for Robux, the virtual currency used in Roblox.

The bureau said further digital investigation linked the suspect to several CyberTipline Reports involving the alleged online enticement of children for sexual exploitation and the distribution of child sexual abuse materials through various online accounts.

Authorities also uncovered an earlier complaint filed by the mother of a 10-year-old child, who alleged that the suspect befriended her daughter through Roblox, manipulated her into producing sexually explicit videos, and later subjected her to coercion.

After conducting cyber and digital forensic investigations, NBI agents identified the suspect and secured a Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data.

During the implementation of the warrant, authorities seized the suspect’s mobile phone. A forensic examination allegedly found numerous child sexual abuse or exploitation materials stored on the device.

The NBI also said agents discovered that the suspect was allegedly communicating online with another child, aged 12, whom he was reportedly attempting to entice into performing sexual acts.

The suspect was arrested and underwent inquest proceedings before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor in Pampanga on July 1 for the filing of appropriate charges under Republic Act No. 11930.

The NBI said it is continuing its investigation and conducting rescue operations to identify and locate other possible victims who may have been targeted through the same alleged scheme.

The bureau also urged the public to remain vigilant and immediately report suspected cases of online sexual exploitation of children to the nearest NBI office.