The government has reminded Filipinos seeking work abroad to go through legal channels to ensure their safety, following the successful repatriation of 176 human trafficking victims from illegal scam centers in Myawaddy, Myanmar.
During a press briefing at Malacañang on Monday, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro urged aspiring overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to follow proper procedures to avoid falling prey to trafficking syndicates.
“Nakikiusap po tayo sa mga Pilipino na nagnanais na magtrabaho sa ibang bansa: Dumaan lang po sana sa tamang proseso,” Castro said.
She stressed the importance of working with government agencies like the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), which ensures that OFWs secure legitimate and safe employment.
The 176 repatriated Filipinos arrived back in the Philippines on Wednesday. They will receive psychosocial services and financial assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to help them rebuild their lives.