A Davao-based businessman who previously gained public attention after accusing a prominent official of assault and threats is set to be arraigned before the Regional Trial Court Branch 53 in Davao City on July 7, 2025, for charges of qualified trafficking in persons.
Kristone John Patria y Moreno, 37, also known by the alias “Sion,” has been charged under Republic Act No. 9208, or the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003, as amended by RA 10364 and RA 11862.
According to court records, Patria’s case originated from a complaint filed with the Manila City Prosecutor’s Office following his arrest in an entrapment operation.
The records further indicate that Patria will be arraigned to enter a plea on multiple counts of qualified trafficking after a resolution dated April 28 found sufficient grounds to proceed to trial.
The prosecution alleges that Patria acted as a pimp, offering women for sexual services and exploiting their vulnerability for profit.
In a complaint filed by Aaron Paul A. Syboco, Patria allegedly offered him so-called “Class A” women for sexual services in exchange for a fee.
The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) conducted the entrapment operation, which led to Patria’s arrest in Davao City.
Assistant State Prosecutor Borgy Calugay stated that, based on his findings, all elements of the crime were established during the inquest proceedings.
He said Patria personally recruited the women and brought them to a hotel in Davao City on April 25, where he allegedly handed them over to undercover agents posing as clients.
Calugay emphasized that the suspect was caught in flagrante delicto, delivering the women and receiving marked money during the sting operation.
Forensic evidence from an initial laboratory report confirmed traces of ultraviolet fluorescent powder on the accused’s hands and on the payment used in the transaction.
The victims also positively identified Patria as the person who arranged and facilitated the transaction.
Meanwhile, prosecutors noted that the use of mobile phones and the involvement of at least three victims elevated the case to qualified trafficking in persons, as defined under Section 6 (c) and (o) of the law.
The case is being prosecuted by the Department of Justice, with Deputy State Prosecutor Olivia Laroza-Torrevillas, chairperson of the DOJ’s Task Force on Anti-Human Trafficking, and Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon endorsing the filing of charges in court.
A court staff member, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the accused is expected to be transferred to Davao City before the arraignment date, as the trial will be held locally.
Authorities clarified that the current charges against Patria are unrelated to the case involving the prominent official and stem solely from the findings of the CIDG and DOJ-led investigation.
