The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has taken decisive action against a technical vocational institution (TVI) in Quezon City, Philippines, that was found to be involved in illegal recruitment activities. The institution, known as Match Trend, was luring individuals with promises of fake jobs as caretakers and factory workers in Taiwan.
Through surveillance operations conducted by the Migrant Workers Protection Bureau (MWPB), it was discovered that Match Trend was demanding a hefty training fee of P30,000 from aspiring female caretakers in Taiwan. The applicants were required to make an initial payment of P6,000 for enrollment. In cases where applicants couldn’t afford the payment, Match Trend would refer them to a lending institution affiliated with the training center.
The DMW revealed that once the applicants completed their training, Match Trend would then refer them to foreign employers who would collect processing fees ranging from P40,000 to P45,000, depending on the chosen agency. It is important to note that Match Trend is neither licensed by the DMW to recruit and place Filipino workers overseas, nor is it an accredited assessment center with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda). Furthermore, the institution does not have a registered program on Caretaker Level II.
In response to these illegal activities, the DMW’s MWPB, in collaboration with the Quezon City police, took swift action and padlocked the office of Match Trend Training Assessment Center located at 145 Biak na Bato St., Quezon City.
“Match Trend, under the guise of a technical vocational institution, preys on the hopes of aspiring Filipino workers seeking employment in Taiwan. They charge exorbitant training and processing fees and illegally refer them to foreign employers. This is a clear case of illegal recruitment,” emphasized Hans Leo Cacdac, the Migrant Workers Officer in Charge.
Cacdac reiterated his warning to Filipino job seekers who are looking for opportunities overseas, urging them to exercise caution and never engage with training centers or firms that promise jobs abroad without the appropriate license and approved job orders from the DMW.
The closure of Match Trend has resulted in the institution and its staff being included in the DMW’s “List of Persons and Establishments with Derogatory Record,” effectively preventing them from participating in the government’s overseas recruitment program. Additionally, they will face charges of illegal recruitment and the revocation of their Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Program Registration certificate with Tesda.
This incident serves as a reminder to job seekers everywhere to remain vigilant and informed about the legitimacy of recruitment agencies and training centers. It is crucial to verify the licenses and accreditations of any institution before engaging in any transactions or payments.
The DMW’s swift action in shutting down Match Trend demonstrates the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens from illegal recruitment practices. By taking a strong stance against these unscrupulous activities, the authorities are sending a clear message that such practices will not be tolerated.
Ultimately, it is essential for job seekers to rely on reputable and authorized channels when pursuing overseas employment opportunities. By doing so, they can ensure their safety, protect their rights, and avoid falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
Source: The Manila Times
