ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – The city government here is intensifying its efforts to protect job seekers from illegal recruitment and human trafficking through a multi-sectoral campaign that champions worker rights and public awareness.
In a proactive move to curb labor exploitation, the Public Employment and Service Office (PESO), in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-9, convened stakeholders recently for the Anti-Illegal Recruitment and Trafficking in Persons (AIRTIP) Campaign Seminar.
The seminar provided critical information on the tactics of illegal recruiters and traffickers while equipping participants with knowledge on legal protections and safe migration practices. It also fosters collaboration among government agencies, non-government organizations (NGOs), and the private sector to address the complex challenges of labor exploitation.
Sheryl Joaquin, supervising labor and employment officer of DOLE-9, expressed appreciation to the city government for spearheading the initiative. She emphasized the importance of the seminar in protecting and promoting welfare of job seekers as they navigate the workforce.
Key discussions focus on identifying victims and perpetrators, implementing preventive mechanisms, and strengthening inter-agency coordination. Speakers present current laws, development plans, and protection strategies aimed at reducing cases of trafficking, especially in remote and vulnerable communities.
Participants include human resource practitioners from private companies and Barangay Employment Service Office (BESO) representatives from island barangays—areas often targeted due to limited access to verified job information. Their active involvement highlights the importance of extending awareness to the grassroots level where risks are highest.
As one of the world’s leading labor-sending countries, the Philippines continues to seek solutions to protect Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) from illegal recruitment.
While many workers succeed abroad, others fall victim to exploitation. Campaigns like AIRTIP provide a lifeline by promoting safe employment pathways and defending the dignity of Filipino workers.
Through continuous education and unified action, Zamboanga City and its partners reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that every job seeker has access to safe, dignified, and legal employment opportunities. (EDT/MLE/PIA9-ZAMSULTA/With reports from ZC PIO)
