Vice President Jejomar C. Binay has vowed to address complaints from workers in the deep sea fishing sector in Negros Oriental after hearing their stories during a forum last Sunday at the Plaza Maria Luisa Suites Inn here.
Workers from a company based in Ayungon town complained of physical abuse from their boss, called “maestro” in the deep sea fishing industry.
The workers said requests for help from officials of Ayungon remained unattended, which prompted Binay to say that officials who were unable to help the victims will also be investigated.
“We requested the DILG, to call the attention of local government officials including the police officers to be of assistance [against] anti-trafficking,” Binay said.
In that form, Assistant City Prosecutor Jonathan B. Lledo said they have strengthened their checkpoints in various land terminals, seaports, and airports in searching for potential human trafficking victims.
He added that they have even revamped the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) to make it more effective against trafficking.
Meanwhile, Labor Undersecretary Hans Leo Cacdac they are conducting trainings and pre-employment seminars as part of their anti-illegal recruitment campaign.
Also present during the press conference were Mayor Manuel Sagarbarria, Vice Mayor Alan Cordova, Region 7 DOLE Director Ezekiel Sarcauga, and members of the press. (Reuel John F. Lumawag)