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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DSWD strengthens anti-human trafficking measures with airport help desks for minors

DSWD strengthens anti-human trafficking measures with airport help desks for minors

Published Sep 11, 2025 12:26 pm
DSWD
DSWD
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has expanded its efforts to protect Filipino minors from human trafficking by setting up help desks at key international airports nationwide.
DSWD Assistant Secretary for Protective Services Ada Colico announced on Sept. 10 that help desks are now operational in the international airports of Davao, Cebu, and Clark, with preparations underway for similar desks at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminals 1 and 3 in Metro Manila.
These help desks support the processing of Minor Travel Authorizations (MTAs), a mandatory document for Filipino minors traveling overseas without their parents, to prevent child trafficking and exploitation.
“Gusto ko lang linawin na ito ay base sa dokumentong hinihingi ng Immigration kapag lalabas ang mga minor na hindi kasama ang magulang. Ibig sabihin, gusto lang nating protektahan ang mga bata laban sa trafficking, abuso, o exploitation kapag nasa ibang bansa sila (I want to clarify that this requirement is based on a document Immigration asks for when minors travel abroad without their parents. The purpose is to protect children from trafficking, abuse, or exploitation while overseas),” Colico explained.
DSWD launched a fully online MTA system in February, allowing families to submit applications, undergo social worker assessments, and receive permits without leaving home.
“Ngayon po, tayo ay digital na. Ibig sabihin, no need na pong pumunta sa field offices para mag-apply ng travel permit. Mag-register lang online, isumite ang mga dokumento, at kami na po ang bahala sa assessment, interview, at paglabas ng permit (We are now fully digital. That means there’s no need to go to our field offices to apply for a travel permit. Just register online, submit the required documents, and we’ll handle the assessment, interview, and release of the permit),” Colico said.
While the application process is now online, DSWD recognizes that travelers, especially at airports, may experience last-minute issues or questions. That is where the newly established help desks come in.
“Ang ating help desk ay naka-station sa mga international airport para tumulong sa mga may concern sa travel clearance. Kung kayo ay na-offload o biglang may hinanap ang Immigration, pwede po kayong lumapit sa amin (Our help desks are stationed at international airports to assist travelers with any issues regarding their travel clearance. If you’re offloaded or Immigration asks for additional documents, you can approach us),” Colico said.
The help desks operate 24/7 to ensure that families can access assistance anytime they need it
To avoid delays and ensure a smooth travel experience, DSWD reiterated that walk-in MTA applications are no longer accepted.
All applications must be submitted online, and families are advised to refer only to official DSWD channels for accurate and updated information.

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DSWD HELP DESK MINOR TRAVEL AUTHORIZATION
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