DMW ramps up crackdown on online job scams, vows stronger protection for aspiring OFWs
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is intensifying efforts to combat online job scams that prey on Filipinos seeking employment abroad.
DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said the agency is working closely with social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok to remove fake job posts that lure victims into human trafficking and forced labor in so-called 'scam hubs.'
'We've taken down 73,714 fraudulent posts on Facebook and TikTok so far. Daily monitoring is ongoing, and we have active coordination with Meta to stop syndicates posing as legitimate recruiters,' Cacdac said.
Senator Raffy Tulfo raised concern over rising reports of Filipinos falling for bogus overseas jobs, later ending up trafficked and exploited. He urged DMW to expand its online surveillance operations.
'Let's add 20 to 30 more surveillance teams to speed up detection of these scams,' Tulfo said.
DMW Undersecretary Bernard Olalia confirmed that the department already conducts online monitoring, but acknowledged the need for further support.
Meanwhile, the DMW continues to assist victims rescued from scam hubs. Through the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Bangkok, survivors receive post-arrival assistance and financial aid from the AKSYON Fund. Gathering testimonies from rescued OFWs also plays a key role in identifying and prosecuting illegal recruiters.
Cacdac said the DMW is planning to open more MWOs in areas with known scam hubs like Lao PDR, Cambodia, and Myanmar. A 24/7 hotline (1348) remains open for complaints, which are referred to the Department of Foreign Affairs for immediate rescue operations.
'We've provided all victims with AKSYON Fund assistance, and we're committed to expanding cooperation with IACAT and other agencies to stop illegal recruitment,' he added.
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