Authorities rescued a 12-day-old infant after the child was allegedly offered for sale by the baby’s own parents in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan.
The Philippine National Police-Women and Children Protection Center said the parents were arrested Monday during an entrapment operation conducted at a mall in the city.
Police investigators said the suspects allegedly attempted to sell the newborn for 27,500 pesos. Authorities said the money was supposedly intended as start-up capital for a planned kwek-kwek and fishball business.
The infant was recovered safely during the operation, according to police.
The two suspects are now in police custody and face multiple charges under laws designed to prevent child exploitation and trafficking.
Authorities said the parents may be charged for violating the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003, as well as the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2022.
They are also facing charges under Republic Act 7610, also known as the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.
The Women and Children Protection Center continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the case, including how the alleged transaction was arranged and whether other individuals may have been involved.
Police have not released further details about the suspects or the condition of the infant, but authorities confirmed the baby was rescued during the entrapment operation.
The case has drawn attention to continued efforts by law enforcement agencies to crack down on trafficking and exploitation involving children, particularly newborns and minors.
Authorities reminded the public to report suspected cases of child abuse, trafficking, or exploitation to ensure the safety and protection of vulnerable individuals.
The suspects remain under investigation as legal proceedings move forward.
