Watchlist order for US pastor in child abuse probe

The pastor and American founder of a Pampanga-based child care facility accused of child abuse is now under the Bureau of Immigration’s watchlist, preventing him from leaving the Philippines, according to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Megan Manahan, director of the agency’s Standards Bureau (SB), confirmed the move yesterday, saying it would ensure Jeremy Keith Ferguson’s attendance in all court hearings on the case.

Ferguson is the founder and director of New Life Baptist Church of Mexico, Pampanga, Inc.

Citing the immigration, the DSWD said a commitment order was issued last week for the transfer of Ferguson to the Bureau of Immigration Warden Facility in Bicutan, Taguig City, following a request from Pampanga police for assistance in handling the American national’s custody.

The agency added that a cease-and-desist order had also been issued against Ferguson after it discovered alleged abuses committed against minors under his facility’s care, along with its “fai­lure to comply with standards that ensure the proper protection of children-residents”.

Ferguson was arrested on Aug 13 and charged with two counts of violating the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act. His bail was set at 160,000 pesos (RM11,540).

“He is technically eligible for bail, but because he also has an immigration charge, he cannot be released. He will be committed to the Bureau of Immigration,” Manahan clarified.

The DSWD revealed that its SB team conducted an inspection of the facility on Aug 12, during which children reported experiencing “physical, verbal, and psychological abuse allegedly committed by Ferguson and some house parents”. — Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN