The National Authority for Child Care (NACC) announced on Wednesday the successful rescue of a four-month-old baby, reportedly sold for P25,000 via Facebook, following a collaborative entrapment and rescue operation with the Philippine National Police Women and Children Protection Center (PNP WCPC) and the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) in Marilao, Bulacan, on 5 November 2025.

The operation led to the immediate apprehension of a 39-year-old suspect, believed to be the infant’s biological mother. The child is now safe, under proper care, and has received basic medical attention.

An inquest has been conducted for violations of Section 4(a and e) of RA 9208, as amended (“Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003”), and Section 7 of RA 7610 (“Special Protection of Children Against Child Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act”).

NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada strongly condemned the act, highlighting the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting children from all forms of exploitation.

“The sale of a child, especially by a parent, is an absolute betrayal of trust and a grave violation of a child’s human rights. We condemn in the strongest possible terms this horrific incident of child trafficking, which uses social media as a platform for illegal activities,” Estrada said.

“A child is not a commodity. We will work closely with law enforcement and our legal partners to ensure the perpetrators face the full force of the law.”

Estrada also made a heartfelt appeal to parents experiencing extreme hardship, encouraging them to seek legal and compassionate avenues for their children’s welfare.

“To all parents facing challenges, please know that selling your child is never an option. The Department of Social Welfare and Development and the NACC are ready to help. We urge you to approach the proper government channels if you feel unable to care for your child. This ensures the child’s safety and provides them with the opportunity to be placed in a safe, permanent, and loving home through administrative adoption or other alternative child care programs.”

The NACC extended its deepest gratitude to the PNP WCPC, led by PBGEN Maria Shiela Portento, for their swift and courageous action.

“We laud the PNP WCPC for their immediate service in saving this child’s life. Their swift action demonstrates their dedication to upholding the law and protecting society’s most vulnerable. The PNP WCPC are true heroes in the fight against child trafficking and exploitation,” Estrada concluded.

The NACC reminds the public to report any suspicious activities related to child trafficking or illegal adoption to the authorities or the NACC hotline for immediate action.