Tougher action sought vs human trafficking

With the recent rescue and repatriation of 176 Filipinos from Myanmar, many of whom were victims of human trafficking and illegal recruitment, former senator Francis Pangilinan has called for stronger protection for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

- Delon Porcalla

Pangilinan, seeking to return to the Senate in the May elections, expressed deep concern over the continued exploitation of Filipino workers abroad, emphasizing that many take extreme risks due to worsening economic conditions in the Philippines.

"The painful reality is that many of our fellow countrymen are forced to take risks by working in illegal and dangerous jobs abroad due to hunger and lack of opportunities in the Philippines," he said.

Pangilinan strongly condemned the traffickers and illegal recruiters who take advantage of vulnerable Filipinos seeking better livelihoods.

He called on the government to intensify crackdowns on these criminal syndicates and ensure stricter enforcement of labor protections.

"Our goal should be to create a Philippines where no Filipino is forced to leave just to survive. So, there will be no more Mary Jane Velosos... there will be no more Flor Contemplacions. Hunger knows no color, and neither should the solution," Pangilinan said, referring to OFWs who suffered while working abroad.