CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The growing risk of Filipinos being lured into war zones, trafficking rings, and scam operations abroad was disclosed by Atty Sonny Matula, president of the Federation of Free Workers (FFW), who warned that poverty wages are pushing workers into dangerous choices.

Matula cited a February 2026 advisory from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), which cautioned against deceptive overseas job offers that may involve recruitment into foreign armed conflicts or illegal activities.

He stressed that such schemes may violate the Labor Code, particularly provisions banning recruitment for work that endangers health, morality, or national dignity, and may constitute illegal recruitment if carried out by unlicensed entities.

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Matula also pointed to the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2022, which strengthens penalties against trafficking and exploitation, especially those targeting vulnerable workers.

“Hunger can make a trap look like a ticket,” Matula said, warning that desperate Filipinos may fall prey to offers that appear legitimate but lead to abuse or exploitation.

Filipinos seeking overseas work face growing risks from fake recruiters promising high pay but concealing dangerous conditions. 

These schemes may lead to deployment in conflict zones, forced labor in scam hubs, or trafficking disguised as legitimate employment.

To protect yourself, always verify recruiters through the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). 

Be cautious of offers with unclear contracts or unusually high salaries, and check Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) advisories on high-risk destinations. 

Any suspicious recruitment activity should be reported immediately to authorities.

Matula said the root cause must be addressed: low wages and lack of decent jobs.

He reiterated labor calls for a ₱200 daily wage hike, wage standardization nationwide, and stronger job creation—especially in rural areas and BARMM.

“Workers should be recruited into decent jobs—not into war, trafficking, or scam compounds,” he said.

Matula emphasized that beyond enforcement, the long-term solution lies in ensuring living wages, reducing inequality, and expanding safe, decent work opportunities at home.