US envoy warns youth against human trafficking

US Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

Most young people want to pursue their dreams. And yet it is the youth who are most in danger of becoming victims of exploitation and trafficking.

The warning was issued by US Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr. during the recent “End Exploitation and Trafficking” concert at the Mall of Asia grounds in Pasay City.

“As your Tito Harry, or Uncle Harry, I advise each one of you to take the necessary precautions: Know the risks you are facing. Do your research before traveling. Know who to call in case of a threat. Inform everybody of the dangers, and report instances of trafficking, whether in factories, households, the sex industry, or anywhere else,” Thomas told the concert goers.

The envoy noted that “human trafficking is a global problem. It occurs in the USA, Europe and here in the Philippines.”

“Let us all be reminded that behind every report of someone trafficked, there is a personal story of suffering and tragedy. Stories about trafficking are stories of deception and abuse. Traffickers target the most vulnerable: young women, children and the underprivileged,” said Thomas.

According to the US diplomat, Washington is “committed to stamping out the global scourge of modern-day slavery.”

“We are proud to work in partnership with MTV Exit and others throughout the region, including the Philippine government and civil society groups,” said Thomas.

In partnership with MTV

Also present during the concert were Australian Ambassador to Manila Rod Smith, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima and MTV Exit campaign director Matt Love, and “antitrafficking champions” like movie star Dingdong Dantes and musicians Itchyworms, Ebe Dancel Pupil, and Parokya ni Edgar, among others.

Earlier, Thomas met with De Lima to reaffirm the US commitment to support the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking’s initiatives.