DMW repatriates 9 rescued Laos OFWs

NINE Filipino workers rescued from a human trafficking scheme in Laos arrived in Manila on Sunday night, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).

“They were the first among 73 Filipino victims of human trafficking rescued from scam syndicates located at the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone, Bokeo Province in Laos,” the DMW said in a statement.

The DMW said the 73 victims of illegal recruitment activities “were promised work as customer service representatives in Thailand, but they ended up being forced to work as scammers.”

The DMW promised full government assistance to the repatriated Filipinos as they “seek justice and rebuild their lives.”

“DMW and other agencies will provide financial assistance, psycho-social support, and legal assistance, among other services,” said the DMW.

Earlier, 129 Filipino workers sought government assistance following a crackdown on illegal companies located within the so-called Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (GTSEZ) in Bokeo province in Laos.

The DMW has said the Filipinos are considered victims of illegal recruitment as GTSEZ is associated with illicit activities, including trafficking of foreigners who were promised employment opportunities.