The Commission on Human Rights on Friday raised grave concern and strongly condemned the ongoing practice of child selling in the country, particularly through online platforms.
“The sale of children, even by their own parents and regardless of intent, is a clear violation of Philippine law and constitutes child trafficking, punishable under Republic Act No. 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act) and RA No. 9208 as amended (Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act).
The Commission said it has recently documented several alarming cases, including one involving a child as young as one month old who was subjected to such an abhorrent practice.
“CHR urgently calls on the Philippine government to uphold its obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Article 35 of the UNCRC mandates that states parties take all appropriate measures to prevent the abduction, sale, or trafficking of children. These acts represent grave human rights violations that must be addressed with utmost urgency,” it said.
It urged the government to strengthen the monitoring and regulation of online platforms, enhance surveillance and investigative capabilities, and ensure the swift prosecution and conviction of perpetrators.
The Commission advised individuals or couples seeking to adopt children that a legal and ethical process is in place, citing RA No. 11642 (Domestic Administrative Adoption and Alternative Child Care Act).
“It is imperative that prospective adoptive parents follow lawful procedures,” it emphasized.
CHR asked the public to stay vigilant and to report any suspected cases of child trafficking to the authorities.
Protecting our children is a collective duty and a shared societal responsibility, it said.
“Let us stand united against the exploitation of children. No child should ever be bought, sold, or treated as a commodity,” it emphasized.
