Manila: The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has intensified its campaign against human trafficking, particularly schemes that lure overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) into illegal employment and force them to work in online scam hubs abroad. Speaking at the Kapihan ng Samahang Plaridel forum at Luneta Park, BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval highlighted the significant risks faced by Filipinos seeking overseas jobs through irregular channels, often resulting in their being offloaded at airports due to incomplete or fraudulent documents.

According to Philippines News Agency, Sandoval emphasized that many OFWs attempt to leave the country illegally and are subsequently offloaded due to a lack of proper paperwork facilitated by some recruitment agencies. She noted the implementation of tighter border controls and passenger screening as part of the intensified efforts. The BI is also strengthening coordination with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), and other government agencies to curb illegal recruitment and dismantle trafficking networks.

These measures aim to stop syndicates that exploit job seekers through deceptive offers and unauthorized deployment. Sandoval pointed out that many victims are recruited through online advertisements promising high-paying jobs, only to be trafficked into scam operations overseas. Government data indicate that trafficking linked to scam hubs remains a persistent regional problem, with victims often subjected to threats, passport confiscation, and forced labor in so-called 'fraud factories.'

During the forum, Sandoval highlighted that dozens of Filipinos have been rescued or repatriated from such operations, underscoring the need for stronger prevention and public awareness campaigns.