BI: Beware of illegal recruiters, abusive employment schemes

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Tuesday warned Filipinos to beware of overseas employment offers and abusive employers after the arrival from Laos of a victimized Filipino couple.

According to the BI, the couple was recruited through social media as Tele Sales Agents with a P45,000 monthly salary.

The couple left the Philippines for Malaysia in April, posing as tourists. They were then transported to Bangkok, Thailand, and then through the Mekong River, eventually arrived in Laos.

The couple said that they were picked up by Chinese men and worked as agents for an online casino.

But from December 2023 to January 2024, the two victims said that they were subjected to physical abuse.

According to BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco, they managed to pay an estimated P800,000 for their freedom, to which they contacted a family member to ask for help from the Philippine Embassy.

“Their release came at a cost, with the couple paying nearly Php800,000 to secure their freedom. Fortunately, they managed to contact a family member, seeking help from the Philippine Embassy,” Tansingco said.

Tansingco added that Filipino citizens should follow proper immigration laws, as leaving the country can make them prone to similar illegal activities.

“We urge all citizens to adhere to immigration laws and regulations, as leaving the country without proper documentation not only jeopardizes personal safety but also contributes to illegal activities that may lead to exploitation,” he added.