DMW Coordinates Repatriation of 78 OFWs from Illegal Myanmar Cyber Scam Operations
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is actively working to repatriate 78 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who were illegally recruited and are currently trapped in cyber scam hubs located in Myanmar. This urgent effort highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Filipino migrant workers abroad.
Cooperative Measures with Myanmar Authorities
During a recent press briefing, DMW Undersecretary Felicitas Bay detailed the department's coordination with counterparts in Myanmar to secure the safe return of these workers. "We have cooperative measures with our Philippine Embassy in Yangon. We have cooperative measures in terms of their protection and eventual repatriation," Bay stated. She further explained that a team from Bangkok is prepared to visit the detained OFWs once clearance is obtained, ensuring their welfare is prioritized.
Welfare Assistance and Previous Repatriations
Bay revealed that since 2025, the DMW has successfully repatriated 839 OFWs from similar scam hubs, providing comprehensive welfare assistance. This support has included food aid, medical care, hospitalization, hygiene kits, clothing, medicines, and payment of immigration penalty fees. These efforts underscore the department's commitment to safeguarding Filipino workers abroad, even in complex and dangerous situations.
ASEAN Discussions on Human Trafficking
Given the alarming number of illegally recruited OFWs in cyber scam hubs across Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia, the DMW plans to elevate this issue in forthcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) talks. Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac emphasized the intention to initiate discussions on human trafficking linked to these operations. "I think this matter will be touched upon, ensuring that our workers deployed in ASEAN member states have been recruited and deployed in accordance with the laws of both the sending and receiving states," Cacdac said.
He clarified that while the focus won't solely be on scam hubs, the topic is likely to be addressed, leveraging the Philippines' current chairmanship of ASEAN. The discussions will anchor on the implementation of the ASEAN Convention Against Trafficking in Persons, a legally binding document that the Philippines helped formulate and adopt. This strategic move aims to foster regional cooperation in combating trafficking and protecting migrant workers.
