Sen Pia seeks Senate probe on online baby-selling

Senator Pia Cayetano is calling for a Senate inquiry into reports of babies being sold on social media platforms.

Cayetano filed a resolution on Wednesday to investigate the growing number of online baby-selling cases and the involvement of organized syndicates.

The senator underscored the need for swift action against criminal groups exploiting vulnerable families online, emphasizing the importance of fully implementing laws such as Republic Act 9208 and RA 11642, which prohibit child trafficking and streamline legal adoption processes.

Law enforcement and social agencies are being tapped to look into whether these transactions occur under the oversight of organized syndicates and to address systemic gaps that enable widespread perpetration of the crime.

Cayetano also called for improved coordination among law enforcement agencies, social workers, and regulatory bodies, as well as community education and digital monitoring systems to prevent online baby-selling.

The senator expressed support for the National Authority for Child Care's efforts to carry out its mandate through adequate funding and public awareness programs, urging strict enforcement of laws like the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act.

Cayetano vowed to lobby for legal measures that shield Filipino children from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.