BI renews warning vs Myanmar crypto hubs

INQUIRER file photo/ALEXIS CORPUZ

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) reiterated its warning to the public against human trafficking syndicates that recruit Filipinos to work in cryptocurrency hubs in Myanmar. Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco reiterated the warning on Saturday after six victims, who all left as tourists in 2023, were repatriated on Thursday. He said the victims received little to no salary and were subjected to physical and psychological abuse. “Stop risking your life for these too-good-to-be-true job offers,” warned Tansingco. He said the bureau has repeatedly warned against such trafficking scams since 2022 and the International Criminal Police Organization has also raised its concern on gangs and scammers in Southeast Asia that specifically target Filipinos. “Many have already suffered, do not let yourself be the next victim,” Tansingco said. “Many countries have already agreed that this is a growing crisis.”—JANE BAUTISTA