The imperative to combat illegal recruitment

Mary Jane Veloso’s return to the Philippines after 14 years of imprisonment in Indonesia is a historic occasion for many Filipinos. As a society that embraces “kapwa”—a core value reflecting a sense of community and togetherness, Filipinos share a profound moral obligation to treat one another as family. Thus, the homecoming of our kababayan (fellow countryman) is celebrated with immense joy.

Veloso’s journey has not only captured national attention but also symbolizes hope and resilience in the face of adversity—values that hold great significance in Filipino culture, especially considering her harrowing experiences as an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) who was originally sentenced to death.

Veloso’s return to the Philippines marks a “win” for the Filipino community. However, it also invites critical reflection on the complexities of her narrative. We must critically assess whether there is indeed a “win” for Filipinos in this context. Instead of simply celebrating her return, we must confront the uncomfortable reality that her narrative involves one Filipino disadvantaging another. Veloso’s experience includes betrayal by fellow Filipinos engaged in illegal recruitment. This aspect of her story prompts difficult questions about our societal values and the lengths to which we, Filipinos, may go for personal gain at the expense of our kapwa.

This moment also serves as an important reminder of the challenges faced by OFWs and the systemic issues surrounding illegal recruitment. Veloso has consistently maintained that she was a victim of illegal recruiters who deceived her with promises of legitimate employment as a domestic helper in Malaysia, only to find herself ensnared in a drug trafficking scheme.

It is alarmingly common for aspiring OFWs, especially those seeking work as domestic helpers (DHs) or household service workers (HSWs), to fall prey to illegal recruiters. Many individuals lack access to reliable information about legitimate employment opportunities, especially since most come from provincial areas, making them particularly vulnerable to exploitation.

In my study titled “Land-Based Employment Agencies as Modern Brokers: A Study on the Recruitment Strategies for Overseas Filipino Workers,” I found that potential applicants for DHs or HSWs positions often prefer personal referrals from members of their communities over strangers represented by formal recruitment agencies. This preference stems from our core value of kapwa as well. Filipinos traditionally value strong community ties, which influence their decision-making processes, especially in matters like employment. When seeking jobs abroad, many individuals turn to friends, family, or acquaintances who have previously navigated similar paths. These personal connections often provide security and reassurance that formal channels cannot replicate. However, this trust can be misplaced; individuals may not fully recognize the risks associated with relying on informal referrals, particularly if those providing the referrals are not acting in good faith.

The reliance on personal networks can lead to a higher likelihood of falling prey to illegal recruitment. Many aspiring OFWs are unaware of the legal frameworks and protections available to them, making them susceptible to recruiters who exploit their trust.

As we celebrate Veloso’s return, it is crucial to reflect on the broader implications of her story. Her experience transcends her plight; it serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by Filipinos aspiring to become OFWs in a landscape rife with illegal recruitment.

More than merely labeling our OFWs as “bagong bayani” (modern-day heroes), it is imperative to raise awareness about the risks associated with illegal recruitment. Aspiring OFWs, especially those from provincial areas, need access to accurate information regarding legitimate employment channels and the legal protections available to them so their reliance on referrals will be minimized and their vulnerability to exploitation and human trafficking will be lessened.

The Philippines greatly benefits from remittances sent home by OFWs, which play a vital role in our national economy. Considering this, it is incumbent upon the government to create a more informed and supportive environment for aspiring OFWs. By doing so, we can prevent future tragedies similar to Veloso’s and empower Filipinos to pursue their dreams safely and securely.

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Lawyer Minami Iwayama is an associate professor in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines.