Trafficking raps filed vs. Satur Ocampo, several others over ‘rescue’ of minors

Former Bayan Muna party-list Representative Satur Ocampo, ACT Teachers party-list Representative France Castro and 17 others were charged on Thursday with trafficking and for allegedly holding minors during their solidarity mission in Talaingod, Davao Del Norte on Wednesday night.

Information from Castro's office said she and Ocampo were charged with human trafficking and violation of RA 10364 or the "Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2012" and RA 7610 or the "Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act."

The accused individuals underwent medical check up at Kapalong District Hospital and were then transported to the Hall of Justice in Tagum City for inquest proceedings around 4 p.m. on Thursday.

A group joined by Castro and Ocampo and 72 others was conducting a National Solidary Mission in Talaingod, Davao Del Norte on Wednesday to give aid to Lumad schools and teachers in the area and investigate cases of human rights violations after the paramilitary group ALAMARA forcibly padlocked the Salugpongan Community Center.

However, by around 8 p.m., the group was allegedly blocked by elements of 56th Infantry Battalion in Sitio Igang, Barangay Palma Gil.

At past 9 p.m., the delegation was held and the delegates were interrogated by security forces as well as personnel from the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office.

Gabriela Women's Party Representatives Emmi De Jesus and Arlene Brosas on urged Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to ensure that Castro and Ocampo would be released as soon as possible.

"We challenge Speaker Arroyo to stand by the rights of all House members who wish to go to anywhere in the country, especially in areas where citizens need their attention and presence," they said in a statement.

"Speaker Arroyo should tell the police and military to respect the rule of law, and the rights of legislators and the public, especially in martial law-infested Mindanao," they added. —NB, GMA News