DFA repatriates 7 trafficked Filipinos from Syria

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has repatriated seven Filipino nationals from Syria who were victims of trafficking.

These individuals were illegally hired to work in Syria after being promised employment in Dubai, UAE, using tourist visas.

The repatriates were undocumented workers who fled their employers due to harsh working conditions.

This marks the second batch of repatriations, with six Filipinos previously brought home on February 4, and 25 more still awaiting their return.

The DFA is actively coordinating with Syrian authorities and employers to secure exit clearances for the remaining Filipinos.

The Department of Justice will assist the repatriates in filing criminal complaints against their traffickers.

A recent report highlighted cases of Filipino women being forcibly brought to Syria, subjected to abuse, and denied salaries by their employers.