PCG: Three would-be victims of human trafficking were intercepted by the Philippine Coast Guard onboard a motor launch in Taganak Anchorage Area, Zamboanga City last Saturday, August 9. 

Reports revealed that the elements of Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Taganak were alerted by Coast Guard Station (CGS) Mapun about three female passengers of M/L Fadzrimar-J who were believed to be victims of human trafficking.

M/L Fadzrimar is a 48.59 gross ton wooden-hulled passenger/cargo vessel, owned and operated by a certain Mr. Margani A. Jailani.

During the boarding inspection, the team noticed three female passengers with suspicious gestures. The ladies failed to present identification and was then invited to CGSS Taganak for interview and profiling. 

The victims were identified as as Cheriel Pasko, 25 years old from Brgy Mabini, Malangas, Zamboanga Sibugay, Mary Joy Curay, 29 years old fromBrgy Boulevard, Kapatagan, lanao del Norte and Jennifer Pepito, 28 years old from Brgy Tambakan, Iligan City.

They revealed to the Coast Guard their intention to travel to Sandakan, Malaysia even without legal documents. 

CGSS Taganak turned-over the three passengers to Taganak Police Station due to the unavailability of DSWD satellite office within the municipality. SPO2 Azis M Nullah of said police station received the custody of the subject individuals and will conduct further investigation prior to proper disposition.