Repatriation set for Filipino human trafficking victims in Myanmar

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine government plans to repatriate approximately 187 Filipino human trafficking victims from Myanmar as early as next week, following coordinated efforts with Myanmar and Thai authorities.

Speaking at the Senate subcommittee on justice and human rights’ hearing on Tuesday, Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) reported that the victims would cross from Myanmar into Thailand via the Friendship Bridge connecting the two countries.

“They are accelerating the process, and it’s possible as early as next week, up to 187 will be allowed to cross the border”.

READ: 24 ‘trafficked’ Filipinos rescued in Myanmar

Upon entering Thailand, the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok will facilitate the victims’ return to the Philippines by chartering a direct flight from Mae Sot or transporting them to Bangkok for onward flights.

De Vega emphasized the urgency of the matter, mentioning that Thailand requires governments to ensure that repatriated individuals are flown out within 24 hours.

The DFA has also identified 62 more Filipinos still trapped in human trafficking compounds in Myanmar, necessitating further rescue operations.

De Vega highlighted the magnitude of the issue, noting that while the number of Filipino victims has been affected, other countries like China have reported even higher numbers of victims. —INQUIRER.net trainee, Sheba Barr