MBLT12 Rescues Group from Human Trafficking into Malaysia

Marine Battalion Landing Team 12 (MBLT12) rescued 13 alleged victims of human trafficking at Brgy Mangsee, Balabac, Palawan last November 22, 2011. The rescue took place as a result of information received from the local government Brgy Mangsee that a group of women were sighted in North Mangsee and are awaiting to be illegally transported to Malaysia through the backdoor.

At around 5 o’clock in the afternoon of November 22, 2011 and upon receiving the report, MBLT12 personnel stationed at Mangsee, together with Barangay Captain Pistoh Hamjah, proceeded to North Mangsee to verify the presence of the unidentified women allegedly attempting to illegally enter Malaysia via the said barangay. The team was able to confirm the report and rescued the following together with the apprehension of a suspected recruiter/guide:

1. Ruby Ann Dela Cruz, 25 years old from Babay, Tibag, Tarlac City
2. Angeline Villanueva, 20 years old from Pandacaque, Mexico, Pampanga
3. Sarah Tarayo, 27 years old from Kalayaan, Pasig City
4. Marilyn Dela Cruz, 21 years old from Cabanatuan City
5. Julie Mateo, 24 years old from San Antonio, Nueva Ecija
6. Jennifer Paernia, 26 years old from South Comembo, Makati City
7. Princess Doce, 20 years old from Sucat, Muntinlupa City
8. Nerissa Castro, 25 years old from Angeles City
9. Dernalisa Castro, 26 years old from Fairview, Quezon City
10. Liza Balceda, 24 years old from Angeles City
11. Mary Jane Cortez, 31 years old from Arayat, Pampanga
12. Lady Lee Buan, 20 years old from Cut-Cut, Angeles City
13. Beverly Miclat, 24 years old from Angeles City
14. Mattarasak Gani from Brooke’s Point, Palawan (Guide) 

The rescued women are believed to be victims of human trafficking and might be seeking jobs in Malaysia while the guide Mattarasak Gani from Brooke’s Point, Palawan may be considered as a suspect. They were brought to AFP Western Command (WESCOM) Hospital together with their guide on November 25, 2011 for medical examination and debriefing before they were turned over to proper authorities.
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December 5,2011
By: LTCOL OMAR L TONSAY PN(M)(GSC)
Official Philippine Navy Press Release