Senate, House seek probes into alleged Philippine-based operations in Epstein files

MANILA, Philippines – The Senate and the House of Representatives are both seeking investigations into the Epstein files to try and uncover the links between the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and Philippine-based online image cleaning operations.

Senator Loren Legarda filed Senate Resolution No. 300, urging government agencies to ensure Philippine institutions and digital platforms are not exploited to conceal or enable crimes. Meanwhile, House Assistant Minority Leader Gabriela Representative Sarah Elago, ACT Teachers Representative Antonio Tinio, and Kabataan Representative Renee Co filed House Resolution 762 seeking an investigation into the matter as well.

The filings stem from information within the Epstein files, a trove of documents and communications released by the US Department of Justice on Epstein’s dealings with associates and other staff.

Based on some of the documents in the files, Epstein was apparently using his connections to find agencies that would help keep his reputation clean online despite his 2010 conviction as a sex offender. According to the files, there was a Philippine outfit helping to launder his reputation by using search engine optimization techniques and other tactics to drown out negative mentions while bumping up positive associations.

“Our children must never be exposed to exploitation networks, whether here or abroad. The Epstein files reveal disturbing global operations, and we have a duty to ensure that the Philippines is not used as a platform for concealment or abuse,” Legarda said.

“These laws are clear: trafficking, child pornography, and concealment of exploitation are crimes. If Filipino individuals or entities were involved in Epstein’s digital cover-up operations, we must investigate thoroughly and hold accountable those who undermine our protections.”

Elago echoed those sentiments. In a statement, she said, “Any indication that Philippine-based individuals or firms may have been used to shield or assist a known international sex offender demands serious scrutiny.”

“The Philippines has long faced vulnerabilities in trafficking, online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, and other forms of gender-based violence. We cannot allow our labor force or institutions to be exploited in ways that may indirectly enable or conceal crimes against women and children,” she said. – Rappler.com