Manila: The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Thursday said the government is working to bring home 14 Filipinos rescued from a major scam hub in Myanmar. In a statement, the DFA assured the public that efforts are ongoing to bring the group home following reports that they remain in Myawaddy after raids in early October freed more than 1,000 foreign nationals from cybercrime compounds.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Philippine government wishes to assure the families of the 14 Filipinos rescued from Hexin, and all those concerned for their well-being, that all efforts are being exerted towards their safe return to the country. The government, through the Philippine Embassies in Bangkok and Yangon, is actively coordinating with both Myanmar and Thai authorities to obtain appropriate clearances to allow these nationals to cross to Thailand at the earliest possible time.

However, the DFA noted that the transfer process has been ‘delicate and complex,’ citing the large number of foreign nationals being assisted in the border area. In the meantime, the diplomatic personnel have sought the assistance of contacts on the ground to extend welfare assistance to the Filipinos. The situation and the safety of the nationals appreciate an abundance of patience and guarded discretion.

Local reports said over 1,000 foreigners fled the KK Park, a notorious scam center in Myawaddy, earlier this month. In its last count, the Philippine Embassy in Yangon said it received a total of 222 active requests for rescue and repatriation assistance from Filipino nationals in Myanmar.