CALAMBA CITY, Laguna (PIA) — The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has warned Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and job seekers to be vigilant in dealing with recruitment agencies, following an incident of illegal recruitment in Baras, Rizal.
In an interview with the Usapang PIA radio program, Assistant Regional Director Karen M. Quilao emphasized the importance of validating an agency’s legitimacy through the DMW website and official platforms.
“If OFWs or job seekers applying abroad want to know if a recruitment agency has a license or valid job order, they may visit our official websites, all updates are there,” Quilao explained.
She also reminded job applicants to avoid recruiters who immediately ask for a placement fee without issuing an official receipt or who promise quick deployment through a tourist visa.
Quilao emphasized: “If you’re applying abroad, make sure you have an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC), a legal employer, and the correct exit permit and clearance.”
She encouraged victims of illegal recruiters to seek help at any DMW office to receive the necessary assistance.
“If you are not available to visit in person, you can send an email, and DMW personnel will immediately contact you to provide assistance and the legal advice needed.”
Following the illegal recruitment incident in Rizal, Quilao said that they will expand the anti-illegal recruitment drive to strengthen public awareness and ensure safety against illegal recruiters.
Last April 28, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and DMW officials conducted an entrapment and closure operation at a church involved in the illegal recruitment of workers in Baras, Rizal.
According to the NBI, the illegal recruiter charged victims P50,000 each for processing fees and documents and promised jobs in Japan, Korea, and Papua New Guinea, with salaries ranging from P36,000 to P120,000.
The NBI added that some victims were offloaded, others were deployed, and some are still awaiting deployment.
In a statement, the DMW said the closure operation aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to safeguard overseas Filipino workers from illegal recruitment and syndicates. (KA, PIA4A)
