The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has once again warned Filipinos against suspicious overseas job offers after 26 Filipinos were repatriated from Cambodia.
In a statement Wednesday, the DFA cited an advisory from the Philippine Embassy in Cambodia, urging Filipinos to be cautious of job offers like “customer service representative (CSR)” or chat support roles, which often involve illegal activities such as love scams or fake investment schemes.
“In many cases, these supposed CSR jobs involve victimizing unsuspecting individuals through love scams or fake investment schemes,” the advisory said.
The embassy noted that some Filipinos were either tricked or knowingly accepted these offers, which promised monthly salaries ranging from USD800 to USD1,000 or more. Many reported that they received no formal contracts, traveled through indirect routes, and even crossed through sea channels to avoid immigration checks.
The DFA confirmed the repatriation of 26 Filipinos from Oddar Meanchey Province but has not yet verified whether they were victims of scam operations common in Southeast Asia. The operation was carried out in coordination with Cambodian authorities.
“This is a testament to the long-standing friendly ties between the Philippines and Cambodia and highlights both governments’ readiness to cooperate closely in matters of mutual concern,” the DFA said.
Upon arrival, representatives from the DFA, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) welcomed the repatriates and provided necessary support.
The DFA reiterated its commitment to prioritizing the welfare of Filipinos abroad through its Assistance-to-Nationals program.
