DFA warns Filipinos against human traffickers in Japan

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) reiterated safety measures against the dangers of human trafficking as it issued a public advisory on Wednesday to Filipino tourists traveling to Japan.

The DFA warned against individuals and organizations that promise employment in Japan but provide tourist visas for entry to the country and those who promise conversion of tourist visa to working visa in exchange for exorbitant fees.

Conversion of visas is not possible under the Article 20-3 of the Japanese Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act unless under special unavoidable circumstances.

The advisory also reminded that the use of a tourist visa to work, entering Japan through a Spouse of Japanese National visa by fake marriage, and overstaying a visa were all criminal offenses that lead to fines, incarceration and deportation.

The department also stated that the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) is the duly recognized employment organization that Filipinos should consult in obtaining appropriate working visa through the Japanese Embassy in the Philippines.

The DFA said victims of human trafficking should contact the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo and the Philippine Consulate-General in Osaka-Kobe.

The advisory was released in light of the 2016 World Day Against Trafficking held on July 30. Ma. Czarina A. Fernandez, trainee