Shared commitment to protecting overseas Filipinos.

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), co-chaired with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), recently convened the third inter-agency meeting to develop and enhance response protocols for protecting the privacy and confidentiality of human trafficking victims.

The meeting focused on creating a technical working group to manage the database of blacklisted individuals and establishing data-sharing arrangements among participating agencies. This collaborative effort aims to strengthen the fight against illegal recruitment and human trafficking, aligning with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s instruction for a comprehensive government approach.

In attendance were representatives from the Bureau of Immigration (BI), the Department of Justice (DoJ), NAIA Task Force, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO). The discussions and strategic planning sessions were held at the DMW Central Office in Mandaluyong City on August 20, 2025. This initiative underscores the commitment of the Philippine government to ensure the welfare and protection of its migrant workers and overseas Filipinos from the pervasive issue of human trafficking. The collaborative work of these agencies is crucial in creating a more secure environment for those seeking opportunities abroad.