The Philippines and Cambodia are ramping up their efforts against human trafficking as diplomats of both sides met to discuss bilateral cooperation.
Philippine Ambassador to Cambodia Maria Amelita Aquino recently called on newly-installed Cambodian Interior Minister, with whom she discussed Manila and Phnom Penh's law enforcement efforts.
During their meeting on Dec. 14, Aquino conveyed the Philippine government's appreciation for Cambodia for its support and assistance in addressing human trafficking issues involving Filipinos in Cambodia.
"She cited in particular the continuous support provided by the Cambodian National Police and the General Department of Immigration for Filipinos in distress," the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Thursday, Dec. 21.
Cambodia was among the countries where Filipinos have been reported to be victims of human trafficking. DFA recently disclosed that Filipinos are still being trafficked to Cambodia, among other Southeast Asian nations, to work as online scammers.
Aquino also shared the country's measures in solving such a problem and its efforts in disseminating information on the immigration policies of Cambodia.
Cambodia's top diplomat then suggested increasing both countries' partnership on capacity-building programs, such as training for the public sector, particularly in law enforcement.
"He also mentioned strengthening cooperation on education and tourism, which would facilitate people-to-people exchanges between the two countries," DFA added.