The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has issued a stern warning to Filipino workers about accepting lucrative job offers in Myanmar and other neighboring Asian countries. Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco reiterated this warning after four Filipinos recently returned from Myanmar, where they had fallen victim to illegal recruitment.
The victims, whose identities are being withheld for their protection, arrived in Manila from Yangon via a Thai Airways flight on November 21. Their harrowing experiences serve as a cautionary tale for other Filipinos, highlighting the risks involved in being lured by promises of high-paying jobs from strangers and foreigners who may abandon them when problems arise while working abroad.
To avoid such unfortunate circumstances, Tansingco advises Filipino workers to follow the legal process for applying to overseas jobs. By doing so, they can ensure their safety and protection throughout their employment abroad.
The four victims shared that they were unable to obtain proper working visas and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) registration while they were in Laukkai, Myanmar. Initially, they had entered the country posing as tourists but were later recruited by their foreign acquaintances to work in Myanmar.
Tansingco revealed that two of the victims were recruited through a job posting on Facebook, offering positions as customer service representatives in Myanmar. Unfortunately, Myanmar is currently experiencing civil unrest, making it a risky environment for foreign workers.
Upon their arrival, the victims were coerced into engaging in online scamming activities for an undisclosed Chinese company. They endured physical abuse and were subjected to poor working conditions, highlighting the dangers faced by those who fall victim to illegal recruitment.
Tansingco expressed deep concern over these incidents and emphasized the need for heightened vigilance among Filipino workers. He pointed out that the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has classified Myanmar’s conflict as a Crisis Alert Level 2, also known as the Restricted Phase. Consequently, only documented overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are permitted to travel to Myanmar, subject to stringent protocols and safeguards.
Illegal recruitment not only violates Philippine laws but also undermines the rights and welfare of Filipino workers. Tansingco urged aspiring OFWs to verify the legitimacy of job offers, ensure proper documentation, and seek guidance from licensed recruitment agencies before applying for jobs abroad.
It is crucial for Filipino workers to be aware of the risks associated with accepting job offers in countries experiencing civil unrest or where illegal recruitment is prevalent. By following the legal process and seeking guidance from authorized recruitment agencies, they can protect themselves from falling victim to exploitation and abuse.
The BI’s warning serves as a reminder that the safety and well-being of Filipino workers should always be a top priority. It is essential to stay informed about the current situation in potential work destinations, including local laws, customs, and any travel advisories issued by the Philippine government.
Ultimately, Filipino workers must exercise caution and make informed decisions when considering job opportunities abroad. By doing so, they can ensure a safer and more secure future for themselves and their families.
Source: The Manila Times
