Bill strengthening anti-trafficking in person policies in PH awaits Duterte approval

MANILA, Philippines — The measure seeking to strengthen policies on anti-trafficking in persons now only needs the approval of President Rodrigo Duterte.

The Senate and the House of Representatives ratified the bicameral conference report on the disagreeing provisions of Senate Bill No. 2449 and House Bill No. 10658 during their respective sessions on Wednesday.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, chairman of the Senate committee on women, said the measure provides additional tools to law enforcement agents to run after human traffickers using offline and online platforms.

Hontiveros added that the measure also holds internet intermediaries, including social media networks and financial intermediaries, liable for knowingly or gross negligence allowing their platforms to be used for trafficking.

Moreover, the senator said the bill increases protections to victims of trafficking, including Filipino victims of trafficking overseas.

“Lastly, [it] aligns with recently passed, and soon to pass laws, such as the Department of Migrant Workers Law of Senator Joel Villanueva, and the Foundling bill by the Committee on Women,” Hontiveros said.

“May this landmark piece of legislation help end the scourge of trafficking in persons,” she added.

Since the Senate and the House have ratified the measure, it will now be transmitted to Duterte’s office for his possible approval.

READ: House OKs stronger bill vs trafficking; online offenses now included

READ: Senate passes bill bolstering anti-human trafficking law