The Manila Times
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has filed human trafficking charges against the wife and son of former congressman Mike Defensor following an entrapment and rescue operation that uncovered an alleged sexual exploitation scheme involving a nightclub and hotel in Pasig City. NBI Director Melvin Matibag confirmed that cases for violations of Republic Act 9208 were filed before the Pasig City Prosecutor’s Office against Julie Defensor and Miguel Defensor, along with several other individuals. The charges stem from an April 21, 2026 operation conducted by the NBI Special Task Group in coordination with the Department of Justice–Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking and the Department of Social Welfare and Development. The operation targeted Chicago Nightclub and Bleu Hotel in Ortigas. Authorities said the probe began after a confidential informant reported the alleged recruitment and sexual exploitation of women. Surveillance and case build-up indicated that customers were entertained at the nightclub through a “line-up” system, after which selected women were brought to rooms in the adjacent hotel where sexual services were allegedly carried out. Investigators said transactions ranged from ₱10,000 to ₱20,000 per encounter, with proceeds reportedly shared among facilitators, managers, and other individuals involved. The raid led to the rescue of 54 women and the arrest of 15 individuals, including managers, facilitators, and customers who allegedly availed themselves of the victims’ services. Authorities said the customers may also face charges under laws penalizing the exploitation of trafficked persons. Recovered during the operation were marked money, suspected illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia, and documentary evidence linked to the alleged activities. These findings prompted additional charges under Republic Act 9165. Matibag said investigators established that the Defensor family owns the hotel where the alleged exploitation took place. He clarified, however, that ownership records are part of the ongoing probe and do not, by themselves, establish criminal liability. The rescued women have been turned over to social welfare authorities for care, protection, and assistance. The NBI said it will continue pursuing those behind the operation, reiterating that all respondents are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
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