Angeles City Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr. led the rescue of 6 minors, aged 10-17 years old from a suspected pedophile on two separate operations conducted on August 8 and 9, 2023.

The minors were rescued from 47-year old Robert Ramirez who was nabbed by the Angeles City Police Office (ACPO) during an entrapment operation.

During the rescue, Mayor Lazatin was with the personnel from the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), led by Edna Duaso.  The mayor immediately ordered the filing of charges against the alleged sex offender.

“We will not tolerate such wrongdoings in our city,” Mayor Lazatin asserted.

“Kapakanan ng kabataan at kinabukasan ng Siyudad Angeles ang manganganib sa ganitong klaseng krimen,” Mayor Lazatin furthered.

A charge of qualified trafficking in violation of RA 10634 or the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2022 has been filed by the City government against Ramirez.

According to Duaso, the rescued minors will remain under the custody of CSWDO at the Home for the Girls for proper processing and rehabilitation.

Duaso also said that she was instructed by Mayor Lazatin to assist and ensure the welfare and safety of all the rescued minors.

Mayor Lazatin, since taking office in 2019, pledged to protect the welfare of children in Angeles City through his immediate response and rehabilitation programs.