THE United States government has recognize the Philippines Bureau of Immigration (BI) for its “unwavering commitment in combatting human trafficking.”
BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco said was told that the country has maintained its Tier 1 status for the eighth consecutive year in the US State Department’s 2023 Trafficking in Persons Report.
The BI, as an active member of the DOJ-led Inter-Agency Council against Trafficking (IACAT), has played a crucial role in strengthening efforts to protect overseas Filipinos from the threat of human trafficking and labor exploitation abroad.
Tansingco cited the agency’s dedication to safeguard the welfare of the Filipinos.
“We will continue to protect our kababayans from this modern day slavery,” he said.
“The Bureau of Immigration remains steadfast in its commitment to fighting this crime and ensuring the safety and well-being of our citizens abroad,” the BI chief added.
The report acknowledges the Philippine government’s serious and sustained efforts in combating human trafficking, amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Tier 1 ranking is the highest classification given by the US State department, indicating that a country fully complies with the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking and is actively working to address the issue.
It reflects the Philippines’ commitment to preventing human trafficking, prosecuting offenders, and protecting victims.
In recent years, the BI has intensified its collaboration with relevant agencies and international partners to combat trafficking. Through the IACAT, the bureau works closely with law enforcement agencies, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders to formulate and implement comprehensive anti-trafficking strategies.
Recently, the BI was the first to raise alarm against a human trafficking scheme that victimized Filipinos, enticing them to work in pseudo-call centers abroad, only to end up working for a crypto scam ring.
“This citation is a result of the joint effort of all members of the IACAT, which has been very active in combatting trafficking in all fronts. Despite the challenges, we will remain vigilant against new forms of trafficking targeting vulnerable Filipinos,” Tansingco said.
Also tagged by the State department as Tier 1 were Australia, Canada, France, Singapore, United Kingdom, and the USA.