Cebu City police urge reporting of baby selling incidents

Authorities in Cebu City, Philippines, are urging residents to report any suspicious activities related to the sale and purchase of infants. This plea follows the arrest of a couple accused of selling their newborns to fund their drug addiction. The couple lived in Brgy. Duljo Fatima and was caught selling their seventh and eighth children. Police rescued one baby girl during a raid. The operation began after a neighbor overheard a child mentioning that their sibling was sold to buy a phone. This prompted a social media post that led officials to investigate. On March 7, police arrested the couple during an illegal gambling session. The baby was sold for around 100,000 pesos shortly after her birth. Hospital officials confirmed the mother had given birth but stated they were not involved in any illegal activities. Investigators learned that the transaction happened outside the hospital after the father settled his bills with money from a buyer’s middleman. Local police encourage the community, especially hospital staff, to report any unusual behavior. Ongoing investigations are focusing on the couple's actions, and they face charges related to illegal gambling and human trafficking. For those looking to adopt, the report emphasizes the importance of following legal procedures. The National Authority for Child Care offers a streamlined adoption process, making it easier for families and individuals, including singles and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, to adopt children legally.