14-10-2024 (MANILA) The Philippine government has taken a firm stance on the case of 20 Filipinas embroiled in an illegal surrogacy operation in Cambodia, asserting that they are victims of human trafficking despite potential criminal charges they may face in the Southeast Asian nation.
Department of Justice (DOJ) Undersecretary Nicholas Felix Ty emphasised that from the Philippine government’s perspective, these women are unequivocally considered victims, regardless of the legal implications in Cambodia where surrogacy is prohibited. Of the 20 Filipinas involved, 13 are currently pregnant.
“In our view, they are victims of human trafficking,” Ty stated. “As such, they are entitled to various government benefits afforded to trafficking victims. Most importantly, this includes the principle of non-criminality, meaning they should not be held accountable for any crimes committed as a result of being trafficked.”
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), through the Philippine Embassy in Cambodia, is actively engaged in diplomatic discussions with Cambodian officials regarding the women’s predicament. Ty acknowledged the complexity of the situation, given that surrogacy is criminalised in Cambodia.
“We understand that they may face criminal charges in Cambodia,” Ty explained. “However, our embassy is appealing to the Cambodian government to consider the circumstances surrounding their involvement.”
Upon their return to the Philippines, the women will be asked to cooperate with authorities in the ongoing fight against human trafficking. The government is currently working on the repatriation of at least seven of the Filipinas, while the 13 who are pregnant will remain in Cambodia for further monitoring.
Ty also revealed that last year, authorities intercepted a Filipina who had been offered up to 1 million pesos to participate in a surrogacy scheme, highlighting the ongoing nature of such trafficking operations.
In a related development, Ty reported a recent success in preventing further trafficking attempts. “Last Friday, we managed to rescue two potential female victims of human trafficking at the airport,” he said. “The male suspect accompanying them is now facing inquest proceedings at the DOJ.”
