THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) yesterday warned aspiring overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) against unscrupulous individuals lurking outside the offices of licensed recruitment agencies waiting for potential victims.
In a public advisory, the DMW warned the public against alleged scammers, who target those applying for jobs abroad through local recruitment agencies.
“We are issuing a warning to those looking to apply for jobs abroad against individuals or groups staying outside licensed recruitment agencies,” said the DMW.
“The public is being advised not to easily trust strangers you talk to outside the agency’s office, and give personal information to a person you just met,” it added.
The DMW said such interactions outside the offices are part of the modus operandi of scammers.
It said the alleged scammers begin by inviting potential victims to eat that will lead to them exchanging contact information, with the former claiming to be an employee of the recruitment firm.
Later on, the alleged scammer will send a message to the victim to go to the DMW office to sign his/her employment contract.
The scammer, however, will warn the applicant against bringing money or other personal belongings inside the DMW premises.
“Because of this, the applicant will be forced to leave his belongings to the accomplice of the scammer. This is a scam!” said DMW.
Instead of talking to strangers, the Department is urging aspiring OFWs to deal with personnel of the recruitment agencies.
“Only deal with personnel inside the registered offices of the licensed recruitment agencies to avoid falling victim to illegal recruiters, scammers/fixers, or human traffickers,” said DMW.
