MANILA, Philippine – Nine Filipino workers rescued from alleged scam syndicates in Laos arrived back home in the Philippines on Sunday, August 25, as the Department of Migrant Works (DMW) vowed assistance in their quest for justice.

DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac met the victims of suspected cases of human trafficking at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and assured them of “full government assistance as they seek justice and rebuild their lives,” according to a Facebook post by the agency.

The victims were rescued from alleged syndicates situated at the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone in Laos’ Bokeo province through efforts by the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking.

According to DMW, the Filipinos were promised work as customer service representatives in Thailand but were eventually forced to work as scammers. Thailand shares a border with Laos.

There were a total of 73 Filipinos rescued from Laos, the agency added, which are also expected to receive financial assistance, psycho-social support, and legal assistance from the government.

This is not the first time that Filipinos were rescued from the region. As early as 2022, the Senate – led by Senator Risa Hontiveros – has been investigating incidents where Filipinos were trafficked to other countries in Southeast Asia, including Cambodia and Myanmar. – Rappler.com