PH Working to Bring Home Pinoys Trapped in Exploitative Offshore Gaming Jobs in Lao PDR

Philippine officials are intensifying their efforts to safeguard the welfare of Filipinos recruited to work in offshore gaming operations in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. This move comes amid concerns over illegal recruitment and human trafficking linked to these operations.

During the October 12, 2024 news forum in Quezon City, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Cacdac confirmed that authorities are actively monitoring the situation of these overseas workers. “Patuloy ang pagma-manman ng sitwasyon sa mga POGO workers. Mayroon pa kaming naiwan doon na mga POGO workers na tinutulungan pa rin nila Ambassador [Deena Joy] Amatong (We continue to keep a close watch on the situation of POGO workers. We still have some workers there whom Ambassador [Deena Joy] Amatong is assisting,” Cacdac was quoted as saying in a report published by ABS-CBN.

Ambassador Amatong has been instrumental in uncovering a syndicate responsible for recruiting Filipinos for these offshore gaming operations. Her efforts led to the repatriation of several workers who were part of these exploitative schemes. According to Cacdac, the DMW, alongside the Department of Justice (DOJ) and other law enforcement agencies, is committed to tracking down and dismantling the syndicate.

The DMW secretary emphasized the importance of gathering information from each repatriated worker to help authorities identify the recruiters operating within the Philippines. “We are working closely with the DOJ. Kada uwi ng mga pinapauwi ni Ambassador ay kinukunan natin ng statement sa ating Anti-Illegal Recruitment unit at ‘pagkakuha natin ng statement, may tinukoy silang Philippine element or Philippine recruiter and na-sumbit natin kaagad. Ini-endorse natin kaagad sa DOJ for the appropriate filing of complaints sa piskalya (Each time a rescued Filipino returns home, we collect statements through our Anti-Illegal Recruitment unit. If they identify any Philippine-based recruiter, we immediately submit this information to the DOJ for appropriate legal action),” he explained.

As part of these ongoing efforts, Ambassador Amatong reported that a total of 160 Filipinos working in offshore gaming operations have been sent back to the Philippines from Laos. This includes a recent case in August, when 125 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) were repatriated after being victimized by cyber scam operations in Laos. These repatriations followed a crackdown on illegal activities occurring in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone located in Bokeo province.

Amatong urged the rescued Filipinos to collaborate with Philippine authorities to help prevent illegal recruitment and human trafficking in the future. She stressed the importance of seeking better and legitimate opportunities for themselves and their families upon their return. She pointed out that it is essential for these individuals to understand the risks associated with illegal recruitment and to report any suspicious activities.

The Philippine Embassy in Vientiane is also playing a crucial role in this initiative. It is actively coordinating with the Lao government to ensure the protection and welfare of Filipinos who may still be in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone. The embassy’s efforts include monitoring the situation and providing assistance to those at risk.

The crackdown on illegal activities in Laos has raised alarms about the vulnerability of overseas workers. Many Filipinos seeking employment abroad often fall prey to unscrupulous recruiters who lure them with promises of high-paying jobs. Unfortunately, these offers can lead to dangerous situations, including exploitation and abuse.

As a response to these ongoing challenges, Cacdac and Amatong are advocating for greater public awareness regarding the risks of illegal recruitment. They emphasize the need for prospective workers to conduct thorough research and seek legitimate employment opportunities. The DMW is also working on initiatives aimed at enhancing the support system for OFWs, ensuring they have access to necessary resources and information before leaving the Philippines.

Read related article: Laos to Mimic POGO Model with New Offshore Licences