Renewed Calls for Stronger Government Action on Illegal Recruitment
As the nation marks Migrant Workers Day, lawmakers have intensified their appeals for stronger government action on illegal recruitment and human trafficking. These issues continue to cast a shadow over the lives of many overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), a reality that lawmakers say cannot be ignored.
OFW Party-list Rep. Marissa “del Mar” Magsino highlighted the harsh realities faced by OFWs caught in these predicaments. Beyond illegal recruitment and trafficking, many OFWs endure abuse, delayed returns, and challenges reintegrating into society. “Nitong mga nakaraang buwan, ilang OFWs ang humingi ng saklolo sa atin dahil sila’y nabiktima ng sindikato sa area na tinatawag na Golden Triangle. Pinangakuan ng trabaho bilang call center pero napunta sa mga nagpapatakbo ng scam operations,” she shared, describing how victims were lured with fake job offers only to be trapped in scam rings.
Ongoing Challenges Despite Government Efforts
While the government has initiated measures such as bilateral labor agreements and expanded welfare programs through the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), thousands of Filipinos still fall prey to deceitful recruiters. Magsino noted the continued physical and emotional hardships OFWs face abroad, stating, “Gutom at bugbog ang sumasalubong sa kanila bawat araw.”
She also expressed disappointment that despite interventions from agencies like the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the DMW, illegal recruitment and trafficking remain rampant. On this Migrant Workers Day, Magsino emphasized that the celebration is a solemn reminder that the fight is far from over: “Hindi kami magdiriwang nang basta-basta. Sa halip, ito ay isang paalala sa ating lahat—lalo na sa gobyerno na hindi pa tapos ang laban ng mga OFW.”
Honoring OFWs’ Resilience and Continuing the Fight
Meanwhile, Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre, chair of the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs, paid tribute to the courage and sacrifices of millions of OFWs. He acknowledged the pride they bring to the country and hope to their families through relentless hard work. Acidre, whose father was an OFW, shared, “I have seen firsthand the quiet struggles behind every remittance, every balikbayan box, and every tearful airport goodbye. Our OFWs are more than economic contributors.”
According to local leaders, the House of Representatives has reaffirmed its commitment to securing a better future for migrant workers. This includes protecting their rights not only abroad but also upon their return. Acidre stressed that while progress has been made, the journey is ongoing: “Every legislation we pass, every hearing we conduct, and every reform we pursue is for our bagong bayani.”
He concluded by reminding everyone that Migrant Workers Day is not merely a celebration but a solemn duty: “It is a solemn reminder of our duty—to protect, to empower, and to stand with every Filipino worker, wherever they may be in the world.”
For more news and updates on migrant workers, visit Filipinokami.com.