The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) arrested three individuals and rescued 15 women in an operation against an alleged illegal surrogacy scheme operating in Porac, Pampanga.

The NBI–Human Trafficking Division (NBI-HTRAD) said the operation targeted House of Surrogacy PH following a complaint from a former surrogate mother who accused the group of recruiting financially vulnerable women to act as surrogate mothers under deceptive arrangements.

The complaint alleged the women were paid to carry pregnancies to term and later surrender custody of the children, with the group also facilitating the falsification of details on birth certificates.

Investigators coordinated with the Department of Health (DOH), which confirmed the entity was not licensed or accredited as a healthcare facility. The NBI also worked with its Central Luzon regional office and local social welfare authorities in Porac, Pampanga.

Through surveillance and an undercover operation, authorities identified the suspects and later discovered a second facility housing additional pregnant women.

A coordinated raid involving the NBI–HTRAD, local social workers, and partner groups led to the arrest of three suspects and the rescue of 15 victims.

The arrested individuals were informed of the charges and their constitutional rights before being taken into custody for booking procedures. The NBI said inquest proceedings are being prepared for violations of relevant laws.