MANILA -- The Department of Justice has filed multiple criminal cases against an elementary school teacher before the Tarlac Regional Trial Court for child sexual abuse and exploitation.

According to the DOJ, the accused was charged with Online Sexual Exploitation of Children or OSAEC and Lascivious Conduct.

At the time of the incident in 2019, the victims were 13 and 6 years old.

The victims were supposedly lured on separate dates to go to Tolentino’s office and house, where they were sexually molested. 

They were offered P100 to P150 and sandwiches every time they were asked to visit Tolentino. 

"This manipulation of power dynamics, coupled with the victim's fear, underscores the coercive nature of respondent Tolentino's actions and the vulnerability of the minor in the face of such authority," said Prosecutor Criselda Teoxon-Yanga in the resolution dated January 20, 2025.

In a statement, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla hailed the prosecutors handling the case. 

"This is a testament of the DOJ's unwavering commitment to the pursuit of justice, especially in cases involving the most vulnerable members of our society," Remulla said.