MANILA — Authorities intercepted and rescued two human trafficking victims along with their illegal recruiter, at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 in Pasay City, the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) reported.

The operation was conducted by IACAT member agencies, including the Bureau of Immigration’s Immigration Protection and Border Enforcement Section (I-PROBES) and the NAIA Anti-Trafficking Task Force (NAIATFAT).

Initial investigations revealed that the suspect, a known religious leader affiliated with a seminary, allegedly used his position and influence to recruit individuals to join supposed missionary work. He reportedly promised the victims teaching jobs in Thailand after completing their assignments.

The victims were rescued after immigration officers detected inconsistencies in their travel declarations, prompting closer scrutiny. The suspect had already been under I-PROBES surveillance, which aided authorities in identifying the trafficking attempt.

Upon further questioning, the victims admitted the real purpose of their travel — illegal employment abroad.

The Bureau of Immigration has since endorsed the case to the NAIATFAT and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Anti-Human Trafficking Division for a deeper probe into the suspect’s operations and the possible involvement of other individuals or groups.

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) also confirmed that the suspect is not licensed or authorized to recruit overseas workers.

The suspect now faces charges for violating Republic Act No. 8042, or the Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act of 1995, as amended by R.A. No. 10022, and R.A. No. 9208, or the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003, as amended by R.A. No. 11862.

IACAT reiterated its warning to the public to remain vigilant against suspicious job offers, especially those circulating online, and to report any suspected trafficking activities through the 1343 Actionline Against Human Trafficking.

The council also emphasized the importance of applying for jobs abroad only through licensed and accredited recruitment agencies under the DMW to ensure fair wages, humane working conditions, and legal protection for Filipino migrant workers.