The Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking has warned Filipino job-seekers against recruitment schemes that lure workers with overseas employment offers but end in forced military service abroad.
Authorities said victims are initially recruited for legitimate work, but upon arrival in undisclosed locations, their contracts are replaced and they are compelled to serve in foreign militaries.
The advisory was issued following a case conference triggered by a complaint received through the government’s 1343 anti-trafficking hotline.
Officials said the scheme reflects an evolving form of human trafficking, shifting from traditional forced labor to forced military conscription, particularly in regions affected by conflict.
The Commission on Filipinos Overseas is leading information campaigns to raise awareness, warning that recruiters offering high-paying jobs without verified contracts from the Department of Migrant Workers should be treated as high-risk.
Authorities urged the public to verify overseas job offers through official government channels and immediately report suspected trafficking cases through the 1343 hotline.
