DFA working on repatriation of Filipino surrogates from Cambodia

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is working on the repatriation of Filipino surrogate women who were rescued in Cambodia in September.

“In response to reports about the anticipated return of the 13 surrogate women from Cambodia, the DFA wishes to affirm that we continue to do all we can to make this possible. This is a whole-of-government approach and many agencies are involved in the effort,” the DFA said in a statement.

“The Philippine Embassy in Phnom Penh continues to coordinate with Cambodian authorities on the matter. We will update you on developments,” it added.

On September 23, Cambodian National Police rescued 20 Filipino women in Kandal Province who were trafficked into being surrogate mothers, the Philippine Embassy in Phnom Penh said.

Thirteen of the 20 Filipino surrogates are in “various stages of pregnancy” while seven others are awaiting repatriation, according to the embassy.

In October, Philippine Ambassador to Cambodia Flerida Camille Mayo said the 13 pregnant Filipino women will undergo a legal process before repatriation.

The seven who did not get pregnant will be repatriated back to the Philippines first, she added.

The embassy also appealed to the Cambodian government not to file charges against the Filipino women who were trafficked into becoming surrogate mothers.

Surrogacy is illegal in Cambodia and violators face two to 20 years imprisonment, according to the ambassador. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News