Manila: The Department of Foreign Affairs has issued a warning to Filipinos considering overseas employment, urging them to be cautious of job offers that might secretly involve recruitment into foreign military forces under the guise of regular civilian employment.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DFA emphasized the severe risks associated with foreign military involvement, including potential physical harm and legal repercussions. The advisory highlights that recruitment into foreign armed forces, whether direct or indirect, could breach Philippine laws and result in loss of citizenship.

Commonwealth Act 63 specifies that engaging in military, naval, or air service for another country without Philippine government consent could lead to forfeiture of Filipino citizenship. Filipinos are advised to verify overseas job offers, recruitment agencies, and employers with the Department of Migrant Workers. The DFA urged vigilance against illegal recruitment practices that could jeopardize their safety and well-being.

The warning follows a social media video featuring Raymond Gumangan from Alcala, Pangasinan. Gumangan claims he was recruited for a logistics role but was reassigned upon arrival in Russia. He is currently detained in Ukraine as a prisoner of war.

Previously, the Armed Forces of the Philippines stated their commitment to countering deceptive recruitment that poses dangers to Filipinos abroad.