February 4Feb 4 Photo courtesy of BalitaA two-week-old baby was rescued by authorities after her parents allegedly attempted to sell her in exchange for ₱27,500 to fund a street food business. The couple was apprehended inside a mall in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan during an entrapment operation by the Philippine National Police-Women and Children Protection Center on February 2.The parents were immediately arrested after accepting marked money used in the buy-bust operation. According to the initial investigation, the suspects intended to use the money as capital for their kwek kwek and fishball venture.The couple is facing charges under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003, the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2022, and Republic Act No. 7610, which protects children against abuse and exploitation. Meanwhile, the National Authority for Child Care (NACC) ensured the baby received necessary medical attention to assess her condition.NACC Undersecretary Janella Ejercito Estrada emphasized the importance of a child's life, stating, “The life of a child is invaluable and must never be used as a commodity." She reaffirmed the organization's commitment to upholding children's rights and ensuring the infant's continued care and protection from the government.In a similar incident in January, a mother in Pasig City was caught selling her child for ₱8,000. The Philippine National Police reminded the public that selling one's child is illegal and emphasized the available legal adoption processes. PNP-ACG Acting Director Brig. Gen. Wilson Asueta noted, “The child is not property that we can sell anytime.", reported Balita.Key TakeawaysA couple was caught in Bulacan for allegedly trying to sell their infant.The parents face multiple charges related to child trafficking laws.Authorities emphasize the illegality of child selling and highlight legal adoption options.Click here for more Philippines stories Adapted by ASEAN Now from Balita 2026-02-04
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