The Department of Justice (DOJ) scored another significant victory against human trafficking, amplifying the intensified efforts of the Bagong Pilipinas government to protect Filipino children from modern day slavery.
This, after an accused in a child abuse case identified as Mary Grace Espinar y Dalayday, also known as “Grace Ranipse,” entered a guilty plea to two (2) counts of violation under Republic Act No. 7610, the law that shields children from abuse, exploitation, and discrimination.
This case arose from the accused’s willful and unlawful engagement in the marketing of children, specifically, by selling an 11-day-old baby boy for P50,000 through a Facebook group page named as “Child Adoption Center Philippines” and via Facebook Messenger.
In a two (2)-page Order, the Quezon City Regional Trial Court (RTC), Branch 99, accepted the guilty plea during its hearing on 25 November 2025. This outcome is the result of the diligent work of the National Prosecution Service (NPS) panel composed of Assistant State Prosecutor Gino Angelo P. Yanga, Prosecution Attorney Criselda B. Teoxon-Yanga, and Prosecution Attorney Angelica H. Sy.
The prosecution panel worked closely with the Philippine National Police–Women and Children Protection Center (PNP-WCPC) and social welfare officers to ensure that the case moved forward swiftly, while prioritizing the safety and well-being of the child involved. Their coordinated efforts led to a plea bargain that secured accountability without putting the young victim through the further emotional stress of testifying in court.
Following the guilty plea, the court sentenced the accused to six (6) years of imprisonment for each count, to be served successively.
This victory highlights the DOJ’s relentless campaign to defend children from abuse in line with the Bagong Pilipinas brand of leadership with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. at the forefront.
The DOJ commends the NPS prosecution team for their diligence and commitment, reaffirming its resolve to protect the most vulnerable and deliver justice with compassion and strength.
For the DOJ, every child protected is a victory, and every trafficker or abuser held accountable is a step toward a safer nation for all Filipino children.