Binay: Phl will attain Tier 1 rating in global campaign vs human trafficking

MANILA, Philippines - Vice President Jejomar Binay expressed confidence that the country will attain a Tier 1 rating in the global campaign against human trafficking after being raised to Tier 2 rank in the 2011 Trafficking in Persons Report of the US Department of State.

In upgrading the country’s status in the campaign against human trafficking, the US Department of State recognized improved efforts in the Philippines to curb human trafficking, especially with the conviction of 25 offenders. 

In a speech delivered during the 5th Social Watch Global Assembly held at the Sulo Riviera Hotel in Quezon City Tuesday night, Binay said this can be achieved through more efficient investigation and prosecution of human traffickers.

“The country’s modest achievements allow us to believe that we could achieve Tier 1 status at the soonest possible time. To that end, we are committed to upgrade our efficiencies in investigating, prosecuting both labor and sex trafficking offenders, including government officials involved,” Binay said.

Binay, who is also the presidential adviser on overseas Filipino workers’ concerns, said the government would go beyond protective and responsive measures, and would strive to create an environment that would make it impossible for traffickers to operate.  

“What must be done is to make sure that Filipinos leaving for jobs abroad are equipped with adequate technical skills and the ability to cope with and adapt to the new culture they will encounter in their adopted country.

 (The) government must also continue, in collaboration with other labor-exporting countries, to work for an international agreement that would allow family members to join workers wherever they go,” Binay said.