MANILA, Philippines— The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Wednesday shut down a beauty salon and a training center in Imus City after these were found to be operating as fronts for illegal recruitment.

The operation, led by DMW Assistant Secretary Jerome A. Alcantara, resulted in the closure of VMJ Beauty Salon located inside Golden Market, Diamond Golden City, and Jef & Eds Learning Center located in Richlane Subdivision, Anabu 2-E. It was conducted in coordination with the Imus City government and the Imus Police Station.

According to Alcantara, the DMW acted under the authority granted by Republic Act No. 11641 and in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify the campaign against illegal recruitment and human trafficking.

The Migrant Workers Protection Bureau (MWPB), led by Director Geraldine Mendez, launched the investigation following a request from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) – Cavite North District, citing reports of illegal recruitment.

MWPB operatives conducted surveillance on June 5, June 11, and July 1. The salon was found to be collecting ₱15,000 from applicants for supposed training in hairstyling and spa services. Trainees were reportedly referred to a contact recruitment agency for jobs in Saudi Arabia with a promised monthly salary of ₱35,000.

During the operation, authorities found a beautician at the salon and a caretaker along with three applicants inside the learning center, which also served as temporary accommodation for recruits.

The owners of the establishments face charges for violating the Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act (RA 8042). The DMW will recommend the cancellation of their business name registrations with the local government and the Department of Trade and Industry.

These closures mark the 17th and 18th illegal recruitment establishments shut down by the DMW in 2025.

The DMW is urging other victims to come forward and file complaints by contacting the MWPB via Hotline +63 2 8721-0619, email at mwpb@dmw.gov.ph, or through their official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/dmwairtip.