Mother Nabbed in Marilao for Online Baby Sale
Agents from the Women and Children Protection Center–Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (WCPC–ATIPD) have apprehended a woman in Marilao, Bulacan for the shocking attempt to sell her own infant through online platforms. The arrest occurred on November 5, following a swift operation triggered by the mother's online activities.
Details of the Alleged Online Transaction
According to an official report released on the WCPC–ATIPD's Facebook page, the suspect had been advertising her four-month-old baby for illegal adoption. The investigation revealed that she initially set the price at ₱20,000, but later increased the amount to ₱25,000.
Authorities stated that the suspect used the internet to find potential buyers, treating the innocent child as a mere commodity in a transaction that violates fundamental human rights.
Legal Consequences and Child's Welfare
The suspect is now in custody at the WCPC–ATIPD office in Camp Crame and faces serious legal charges. These include:
- Violation of Section 4 of Republic Act No. 9208 as amended by RA No. 10364, known as the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act.
- Violation of Section 7 of RA No. 7610, the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act.
The rescued infant is currently under the protective custody of the WCPC–ATIPD and will soon be transferred to the local social welfare and development office to ensure proper care and protection.
In a powerful statement, the WCPC–ATIPD emphasized: "No child should ever be treated as a commodity, and we vow to protect the most vulnerable against those who exploit them." This case highlights the ongoing battle against child trafficking in the Philippines and the importance of community vigilance in reporting such crimes.
