Gov't works hard to repatriate 222 Filipino victims of human trafficking in Myanmar -- IACAT
By Jeff Damicog
The government is exerting efforts to repatriate 222 Filipino victims of human trafficking in Myanmar, the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) said on Tuesday, Oct. 28.
“The Council has mobilized its member agencies to ensure that all identified victims receive comprehensive support upon their return to the Philippines, and perpetrators are held accountable under Philippine anti-trafficking laws,” said the IACAT which is headed by the Department of Justice (DOJ).
In a statement, the IACAT reminded the public to remain vigilant and to be wary of accepting dubious overseas job offers, particularly those involving online employment or recruitment by unverified companies or individuals.
At the same time, the council warned those engaged in illegal recruitment and trafficking activities that the government remains resolute in its determination to investigate, prosecute, and bring all perpetrators to justice.
It said the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), through the Philippine Embassy in Myanmar, is leading the coordination on repatriation efforts in close collaboration with authorities in Myanmar and Thailand to finalize the necessary arrangements for the return of the victims.
Also, it said the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) also deployed an augmentation team to provide direct assistance on the ground.
“The Department of Justice, together with IACAT law enforcement authorities shall ensure delivery of justice to victims of trafficking through investigation and prosecution of their perpetrators,” the IACAT assured.
Already, it said several cases have been filed against illegal recruiters and traffickers involved in online scamming and human trafficking.