In a decisive move against illegal recruitment and human trafficking, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) safely rescued 78 overseas Filipino worker (OFW) applicants from an unregistered, cramped accommodation facility in Palanan, Makati City.
The successful operation was executed following the enforcement of Closure Order No. 2, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify the protection of Filipinos seeking employment abroad.
The operation was spearheaded by DMW-National Capital Region Regional Director Atty. Falconi Millar, alongside the Migrant Workers Protection Division (MWPD).
Initial interviews with the rescued applicants revealed that they were recruited by Jenerick International Manpower Incorporated for domestic helper positions across Asia and the Middle East. However, a DMW investigation uncovered severe violations:
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No Permit: The accommodation facility was completely unregistered and lacked the required clearance permit from the DMW.
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Unsafe Environment: The facility was deemed entirely unsuitable for housing, suffering from extreme lack of space, poor ventilation, and hazardous living conditions.
The DMW acted swiftly to ensure the welfare of the rescued applicants by coordinating with key agencies:
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OWWA Support: The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) immediately stepped in to provide financial assistance and safe, temporary accommodations.
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Local Government Cooperation: The Makati Local Government Unit (LGU) closely cooperated with authorities to guarantee a smooth, safe, and peaceful rescue operation. “This operation underscores the government’s unyielding commitment to shielding our modern-day heroes from fraud, abuse, and dangerous recruitment practices,” the DMW stated.
The DMW strongly urges the public and aspiring global workers to remain highly critical of overseas job offers. To prevent falling victim to illegal schemes, applicants and their families must always verify the following with the DMW before signing contracts or making payments:
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The official license of the recruitment agency.
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The validity of the job order.
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The legitimacy of all processing documents.
The public is encouraged to report any suspicious recruitment activities directly to the DMW or local law enforcement authorities to help eradicate illegal recruitment and human trafficking.
