MANILA, Philippines —Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Ted Herbosa has called on hospitals nationwide to strengthen security measures following two infant abduction incidents in Metro Manila during the December 2025 holiday season.

A newborn was abducted from Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center (ARMMC) in Marikina on December 26. The infant was later recovered and returned to the parents.

ARMMC Medical Center Chief II Dr. Imelda Mateo announced the hospital will implement additional security layers, enhanced checking procedures, and stricter validation protocols in emergency rooms to prevent similar incidents.

Days later, an attempted kidnapping occurred at Tondo Medical Center. The suspect was arrested and remains in Philippine National Police custody.

Marikina City Police Station Officer-In-Charge PCol. Jenny Tecson said the Tondo suspect voluntarily admitted to the attempt, citing frustration over a recent miscarriage and pressure from relatives expecting her to return home with a baby.

The DOH reminds to execute the following measures to prevent infant abduction:

• Strengthen security presence, particularly in emergency rooms
• Maintain consistent monitoring and install additional CCTV cameras where needed

• Remain vigilant and question anyone claiming to be medical staff
• Request valid identification from hospital personnel as proof of employment
• Insist that newborn screening and procedures be conducted in the mother's room
• Never allow anyone to take your child without verified authorization

The DOH emphasized that hospitals must prioritize infant security protocols, especially during high-volume periods when staffing and monitoring may be stretched.

Via Mia Alonzo’s report