MANILA, Philippines — A group of 13 Filipino women in Cambodia has been convicted of crimes linked to human trafficking. They were recruited to serve as surrogate mothers. This has raised questions about the future nationality of the babies they are carrying.
Justice Undersecretary Nicholas Ty addressed reporters about the situation. He confirmed that Philippine officials are engaging in discussions with Cambodian authorities as to the nationality and future of these unborn children.
The Filipino women were convicted following a legal process in Cambodia. These women had entered into surrogacy agreements. The agreements involved carrying and delivering babies for others, a practice that has legal and ethical complexities.
Cambodia’s laws prohibit commercial surrogacy, viewing it as a form of human trafficking.
In the Philippines, surrogacy is not regulated by specific laws. This has led to situations where Filipino women are recruited for surrogacy abroad. They often face legal challenges in countries with strict surrogacy laws like Cambodia.