The Department of Social Welfare and Development warns the survivors of typhoon Yolanda who are coming to Manila to be vigilant against potential illegal recruiters and human traffickers who will take advantage of their vulnerabilities.

DSWD-NCR Regional Director Ma. Alicia S. Bonoan said the DSWD has partnered with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) in ensuring protection of women and children-survivors who are either in temporary shelter facilities or living with their families and relatives.

Bonoan added that information and education campaign is being undertaken at Villamor Air Base upon arrival of the IDPs to educate them about their rights and responsibilities.

The DSWD and IACAT have set-up a booth at Villamor Air Base processing center to accommodate inquiries and reports on possible trafficking and illegal recruitment activities involving the IDPs.

It will also conduct AVP showing and distribution of information kits at the Villamor Air Base grandstand and at the ‘Hatod Kabayan’ headquarters to facilitate information campaign.

Likewise, relief workers and volunteers were reminded to familiarize themselves with the elements of trafficking and report possible acts of trafficking to appropriate authorities such as the DSWD and PNP. ###