Police in Laguna rescued a five-day-old baby allegedly sold online, arresting suspects accused of acting as intermediaries in the illegal transaction. Authorities confirmed the infant is now safe and under government care, while the case highlights growing concerns about online child trafficking in the Philippines.

SAN PEDRO CITY, Laguna — Philippine National Police Women and Children Protection Center (PNP-WCPC) operatives rescued a five-day-old baby boy who had been sold online, following a sting operation conducted late February. Officials said the suspects, a live-in couple, were arrested after allegedly arranging the sale of the newborn through social media platforms.

Investigators revealed that the suspects acted as middlemen, connecting biological mothers to potential buyers. Brigadier General Sheila Marie Portento, chief of the WCPC, explained that the operation began after authorities monitored online activity on February 13. “It started with an engagement February 13 and then na-operate namin siya February 26,” she told reporters, confirming that the suspects had offered babies from other locations as well.

Reports vary on the price of the transaction, with some accounts stating the baby was sold for P35,000, while others indicated P70,000. Police clarified that part of the money was intended to cover the biological mother’s hospital bills, while the remainder was meant as commission for the suspects.

The rescue was carried out in San Pedro City, Laguna, where authorities intercepted the suspects and secured the infant. The baby has since been placed under the custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), ensuring immediate care and protection.

PNP officials emphasized that the case underscores the dangers of online platforms being exploited for child trafficking. Brig. Gen. Portento warned that traffickers are increasingly using digital channels to target vulnerable mothers and infants. She reiterated the government’s commitment to intensifying surveillance and enforcement against such crimes.

The suspects are now facing charges under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act and related child protection laws. Authorities said they are expanding their investigation to determine whether the couple was part of a larger network engaged in baby selling.

The incident has sparked outrage among child rights advocates, who called for stronger monitoring of online spaces and harsher penalties for offenders. Social workers stressed that poverty and lack of support for mothers often drive such cases, urging the government to strengthen welfare programs to prevent exploitation.

Police assured the public that the rescued baby is safe and receiving proper care. The WCPC vowed to continue its crackdown on online trafficking, reminding citizens to report suspicious activities to law enforcement.