Manila, Philippines – The Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ) announced on Monday its plan to enhance collaborations with other countries to combat transnational crimes, particularly human trafficking.
According to Philippines News Agency, Justice Undersecretary Mico Clavano, speaking on the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon program, highlighted the complex and international nature of crimes associated with Philippine Overseas Gaming Operations (POGOs). In 2023, investigations revealed that POGO-related crimes are extensive and not confined to the Philippines, encompassing issues like human trafficking, drug trafficking, sex trafficking, and corruption.
Clavano explained that the elements of these crimes are often scattered across various countries, including the origins of jobs and employers involved in trafficking. This complexity necessitates international cooperation for effective resolution. The DOJ, therefore, plans to intensify its partnerships with international bodies and hold more dialogues in 2024. These initiatives aim to provide the Philippines with diverse perspectives and strategies to address these crimes effectively.
A key component of this plan is the Manila International Dialogue on Human Trafficking, which serves as a platform for global collaboration. Clavano emphasized the need for the Philippines to extend its reach beyond national borders to apprehend those at the core of these criminal syndicates. He pointed out that human trafficking is a global issue that affects even developed countries like the United States and Australia.
The DOJ's commitment for 2024 includes working closely with other countries where elements of these crimes exist, aiming to dismantle entire criminal networks, not just targeting low-level operatives.