NBI arrests woman for alleged illegal recruitment of surrogate mothers

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has arrested a woman, identified as Freezle Rose Balando, at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) for her alleged involvement in illegally recruiting Filipinas to become surrogate mothers abroad.

Balando was intercepted on October 13th along with three Filipina companions by immigration officers before they could depart for Thailand.

The NBI has charged Balando with Trafficking in Persons under Republic Act 9208, as amended by Republic Acts 10364 and 11862.

The three Filipinas initially claimed they were friends going on a six-day tour to Bangkok and were employed by TTEC as Customer Service Representatives.

Immigration officers referred the group to secondary inspection due to inconsistencies in their statements, their inability to establish their relationships with each other, and doubts about their travel purpose.