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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider BI forges alliance with Airport Press Club vs human trafficking

BI forges alliance with Airport Press Club vs human trafficking

Published May 9, 2024 08:55 am

 

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BI deputy spokesperson Melvin Mabulac shakes hands with Aiport Press Club president and Manila Bulletin reporter Ariel Fernandez after they signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen the fight against human trafficking.

 

The Bureau of Immigration has signed an agreement with the Airport Press Club in the fight against human trafficking amid the national government’s efforts to push for more safety measures to protect Filipino migrant workers.

The Memorandum of Agreement was signed by BI deputy spokesperson Melvin Mabulac as representative of BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco and Manila Bulletin reporter Ariel Fernandez, the president of the Airport Press club.

Under the agreement, the APC will actively assist the BI, especially on information dissemination to protect Filipino migrant workers against human trafficking syndicates.

The APC is an organization of reporters that cover the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), including government agencies involved in air transport and border protection, including the BI.

In his speech, Mabulac said the MOU is a significant milestone in the country’s battle against the scourge of human trafficking, especially its adverse effects that include heinous crimes victimizing Filipino migrant workers.

“Through this memorandum of understanding, we affirm our commitment to harnessing the power of information and media to raise awareness, disseminate crucial warnings, and empower communities to recognize and combat human trafficking,” said Mabulac. 

“Together, we will leverage our collective resources and expertise to shine a spotlight on this dark reality, amplifying the voices of survivors and advocates alike,” he added. 

In stressing his point on the effects of human trafficking, Mabulac cited cases of deaths of 13 Filipino workers in Iraq, which was not supposed to happen had safety nets been implemented to prevent them from going to the area which was then covered by deployment ban.

He also cited harrowing accounts of Filipinos trafficked in Myanmar that vividly illustrated the deceptive tactics employed by traffickers to ensnare their victims: “What began as journeys disguised as innocent family vacations tragically culminated in exploitation, physical abuse, and forced labor.”

“In forging this partnership, we honor the memory of those we have lost and renew our resolve to prevent further tragedies. Let us stand united in our determination to eradicate human trafficking, ensuring that every individual is afforded the freedom and dignity they rightfully deserve,” said Mabulac.

 

 

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