PNP Chief Vows Intensified Crackdown on Digital Baby-Selling Syndicates
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has pledged a heightened and aggressive campaign against criminal syndicates exploiting digital platforms for the illegal sale of newborn babies. In a statement issued on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, Nartatez raised urgent concerns over a disturbing surge in human trafficking cases involving infants, vowing to mobilize all necessary resources to dismantle these operations.
Alarming Rise in Online Baby-Selling Cases
General Nartatez emphasized that the expanded investigation will target both local and international groups suspected of orchestrating online baby-selling schemes. "This is an alarming modus that needs to be stopped at once for it degrades the sanctity of human life," he declared. The PNP chief assured the public that specialized units have been activated to identify and arrest all individuals involved in these illicit transactions.
Police data reveals a troubling upward trend in arrests related to baby-selling:
- In 2024, seven individuals were arrested for allegedly selling their babies.
- The number increased to 14 arrests in 2025.
- So far in 2026, nine suspects have already been apprehended.
Despite 19 recorded baby-selling cases from 2024 to 2026, only one case filed in 2024 has resulted in a conviction. Nartatez acknowledged this low conviction rate as a significant challenge, stating that the PNP will prioritize strengthening evidence-gathering procedures and enhancing support for prosecution efforts.
Collaboration with Social Media Platforms
To combat the illegal activity online, the PNP is actively coordinating with social media companies. "Nakikipag-usap na rin ang PNP sa mga social media platforms dahil naniniwala tayo na kailangan ng mas maayos at mahigpit na sistema upang hindi magamit ang mga online website sa pagbebenta ng sanggol," Nartatez explained. This translates to the PNP engaging with social media platforms to advocate for better and stricter systems to prevent the misuse of online websites for baby-selling.
He issued a stern warning, noting that the police are considering filing appropriate complaints against platforms that fail to take action against criminal activities conducted through their sites. This move underscores the PNP's commitment to holding digital enablers accountable in the fight against human trafficking.
General Nartatez expressed confidence in the ongoing investigation, stating, "We have been conducting a thorough investigation aimed at unmasking the network system of these syndicates and currently, we are on the right track." The PNP's intensified crackdown aims to protect vulnerable infants and uphold justice in the face of evolving criminal tactics in the digital age.
