MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police Women and Children Protection Center (PNP-WCPC) has reported a disturbing rise in cases of individuals attempting to sell babies online in 2026, with nine incidents already recorded this year, surpassing the total of eight cases documented in 2025.

WCPC chief Brig. Gen. Maria Sheila Portento confirmed that the increase is largely due to intensified monitoring of online platforms. “I want to look at it that way, that we’re rather aggressive with the number of our operations,” she told reporters at Camp Crame.

The WCPC emphasized that these cases represent only the ones they have uncovered, suggesting that the actual number of attempts to sell infants could be higher. Portento admitted, “That’s still the challenge for us. These are only the ones we’ve discovered.”

Authorities revealed that most of the transactions are attempted through social media and online marketplaces, where perpetrators exploit digital anonymity. The WCPC has been conducting sting operations and surveillance to intercept these illegal activities, often rescuing infants before they are sold.

The alarming trend has prompted the PNP to strengthen its coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and other agencies to ensure rescued children are provided with immediate care and protection. The WCPC also urged the public to report suspicious online posts or activities that may involve child trafficking.

Human rights advocates have condemned the rise in cases, stressing that selling babies is a grave violation of children’s rights and a form of human trafficking punishable under Philippine law. They called for stricter enforcement of cybercrime regulations and stronger community vigilance.

The PNP vowed to continue its crackdown on online baby-selling, warning that perpetrators will face prosecution under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act and related laws. Officials reiterated that the public plays a crucial role in exposing these crimes, as many cases are discovered through citizen reports.

This surge in cases highlights the growing challenge of combating child exploitation in the digital age, where criminals increasingly use online platforms to conduct illicit activities. The WCPC assured that it will remain vigilant and proactive in protecting vulnerable children from being commodified.