Manila: The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to combat trafficking in persons in the ASEAN region by pushing for outcome-based monitoring of regional efforts. The DILG emphasized the importance of the Monitoring, Evaluation, Reporting, and Learning (MERL) Framework to assess the actual results and impact of anti-trafficking initiatives. This strategy aligns with the ASEAN Convention against Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children (ACTIP).

According to Philippines News Agency, the groundwork has been collectively laid by establishing necessary tools and processes to strengthen the regional system for monitoring and reporting on trafficking in persons, as noted by DILG Assistant Secretary Lilian de Leon. To assist ASEAN stakeholders in effectively applying this system, the ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting on Transnational Crime-Philippines recently organized the 1st ASEAN Workshop on Monitoring and Reporting of the MERL Framework. Officials from ASEAN member states and sectoral bodies received training on data harmonization, reporting tools, and coordinated implementation of the ASEAN Multi-Sectoral Work Plan Against Trafficking in Persons 2023-2028, also known as the Bohol TIP Work Plan 2.0.

De Leon encouraged ASEAN partners to maintain momentum and deepen cooperation. She urged, “For the good of ASEAN and in recognition of the valuable contributions of each one, let us carry out this program with excellence and shared purpose – toward lasting impact and benefit for our entire region.” The Philippines will further this initiative by hosting the 2nd MERL Workshop in Manila in February 2026, reinforcing the country’s leadership in promoting evidence-based action and shared accountability across ASEAN.

This effort is supported by the ASEAN-Australia Counter Trafficking (ASEAN-ACT) program. Besides the Philippines, other ASEAN members include Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.