Overseas Filipinos are being encouraged to take on a more active role in identifying and responding to human trafficking risks within their communities, as part of a broader effort to strengthen protection for migrants abroad.
The approach was discussed during a legal empowerment webinar hosted by the Philippine Embassy in Bangladesh on March 16. The session, titled “Know Your Rights: Family Law, Divorce, and Child Custody for Filipinas in Cross-Border Marriages,” was aimed at members of the Filipino community in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
Speaking during the forum, Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) Migrant Integration and Education Division chief Ivy Miravalles said overseas Filipinos can play a role in recognising early signs of exploitation and supporting affected individuals.
“The Filipino diaspora provides vital remittances, but when equipped by advocates, they serve as first responders,” Miravalles said. “By arming our citizens abroad with the skills to recognize coercive control and online exploitation, they can effectively mobilize volunteers and offer critical support to survivors of trafficking and cross-border marriage scams.”
The initiative reflects a shift towards deeper engagement with Filipino communities overseas, with the aim of helping them identify risks such as trafficking and fraudulent marriage arrangements. It also aligns with the CFO’s role as part of the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking, where it focuses on pre-migration education and awareness.
The webinar covered topics including online scams, coercive control in relationships, and access to support services for those facing legal or personal challenges abroad. Participants were also introduced to available assistance from both local legal systems and Philippine government agencies.
While the Filipino population in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka is relatively small—estimated at around 3,000 in each country—officials noted that certain groups may face increased risks. These include Filipinas in cross-border marriages, as well as workers in sectors such as garments, hospitality, and international organisations.
Philippine Ambassador to Bangladesh Leo Tito Ausan Jr., represented at the event by Ambassador Nina Cainglet, indicated plans to formalise cooperation between the embassy and the CFO through a memorandum of understanding. The proposed agreement aims to strengthen coordination on safe migration and welfare support services.
Legal insights were also provided by Barrister Shajib Mahmood Alam of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh, who outlined protections available under local laws, particularly in relation to family and custody matters.
The Commission on Filipinos Overseas is an agency under the Office of the President tasked with supporting Filipinos permanently residing abroad, including migrants, dual citizens, and spouses of foreign nationals. Its work is distinct from that of the Department of Migrant Workers, which focuses on overseas Filipino workers and temporary migrants.
