LAOAG CITY — Local government units in Ilocos Norte have strengthened coordination with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to step up efforts against illegal recruitment and human trafficking, expanding public awareness campaigns and community-based interventions to protect aspiring overseas workers.
The initiative follows the signing of a convergence memorandum of agreement, with Gov. Cecilia Araneta-Marcos reaffirming the province’s commitment to safeguarding residents from exploitation and reinforcing local anti-illegal recruitment programs aligned with national efforts.
“The partnership seeks to enhance coordination between LGUs and the DMW in reporting suspected cases, assisting victims, and ensuring that Ilokanos have access to accurate information on overseas employment opportunities,” Araneta-Marcos said, urging the public to report suspicious recruitment activities.
Local officials underscored their readiness to support overseas Filipino workers and their families. Banna Mayor Mary Chrislyn Abadilla said the municipality provides round-the-clock assistance. “Whatever we can give, we will do it all,” she said, citing the LGU’s commitment to responsive public service and coordination with partner agencies.
Under the agreement, participating LGUs and agencies will expand information and education campaigns, conduct pre-migration orientation seminars, organize job fairs, and roll out skills development and upskilling programs. OFW Help Desks will also be established in local government offices to improve access to services and guidance.
Assistant Secretary Venecio Legaspi, who oversees land-based OFW concerns at the DMW, said authorities have shut down more than 1,000 social media accounts linked to illegal recruitment and arrested several offenders. He said the convergence effort aims to further strengthen reporting mechanisms and victim assistance while ensuring communities receive accurate, verified information about overseas employment.
Authorities reiterated their warning to prospective migrant workers to verify job offers through the DMW and transact only with licensed recruitment agencies, noting that illegal recruiters often lure victims with promises of high-paying jobs abroad without proper documentation.
