The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has recently raised an alarm regarding reports of intercepted trafficking victims who were deceived into leaving the country with their fake Chinese husbands, presenting real marriage certificates. While there have been previous cases involving Koreans, the bureau has managed to suppress that particular scheme. However, the re-emergence of this modus operandi has raised concerns, leading to the interception of three victims of trafficking from January to February this year.
According to Immigration Deputy Spokesman Melvin Mabulac, this new modus operandi is evident through the presence of similar names of individuals bringing Filipinas abroad, without any records indicating their return to the country. In a public briefing, Mabulac emphasized that border inspections rely not only on documents but also on questioning and verification through the system.
Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco suspects that this is another case of a mail-order-bride scheme, wherein women are made to travel with their pseudo-husbands to conceal the trafficking operation. The primary targets of these schemes are aspiring overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who are seeking immediate and hassle-free opportunities abroad. Mabulac highlights that most of the victims are individuals looking for employment opportunities overseas, attempting to evade the Department of Migrant Workers. It is crucial to remind individuals interested in working abroad to go through the proper channels, such as the DMW process, to ensure their safety and protection.
To address this issue, Mabulac advises those who wish to marry foreigners to obtain a spouse or fiancé visa before leaving the country. Additionally, the Commission on Filipinos Overseas will facilitate a pre-departure orientation seminar (PDOS) to provide guidance and support, ensuring that individuals are protected and monitored throughout their time abroad.
These cases are not isolated incidents. On November 13, 2023, members of the I-Probes unit reported the repatriation of a Filipina from Xiamen who had departed the country with her fake Chinese husband, presenting an original marriage certificate. However, the victim later revealed that she had no knowledge of the man being her husband and was deceived into agreeing to the arrangement.
The victim endured verbal and physical abuse from her pseudo-husband, who demanded payment for her food and repeatedly threatened to harm her whenever she resisted his advances. This harrowing experience highlights the vulnerability of individuals caught in these trafficking schemes.
It is crucial for individuals seeking opportunities abroad, particularly OFWs, to be aware of the risks associated with deceptive marriages and trafficking schemes. While the promise of immediate employment and a hassle-free process may be enticing, it is vital to prioritize safety and follow the necessary procedures. The BI’s efforts to intercept and address these cases demonstrate their commitment to protecting Filipino citizens from exploitation.
In conclusion, the recent reports of intercepted trafficking victims deceived through deceptive marriages serve as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by aspiring overseas Filipino workers. By raising awareness about these schemes and emphasizing the importance of following proper procedures, we can work towards safeguarding individuals from exploitation and ensuring their well-being as they pursue opportunities abroad.
