DMW, Bali Process Delegates Promote Regional Cooperation on Anti-Trafficking Efforts on Day 2

Manila, Philippines — The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) strengthened regional collaboration against human trafficking during the second day of delegates’ study visit from the Bali Process Working Group on Trafficking in Persons (WG-TIP) and the Technical Experts Group on Returns and Reintegration (TEG-RR) on December 03, 2025.

DMW Undersecretary Bernard P. Olalia emphasized that long-term reintegration, secure migration pathways, and effective referral systems “cannot be developed in isolation,” noting that countries must work together to protect migrant workers and those most vulnerable to exploitation.

Delegates began the day with a briefing from the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) on the Philippines’ decade-long Tier 1 ranking in the U.S. Trafficking in Persons Report. They later toured key DMW service centers, including the Balik-Manggagawa Processing Center, the National Reintegration Center for OFWs, and the Migrant Workers Protection Bureau, to observe frontline systems supporting migrant welfare and reintegration.

In the afternoon, delegates visited four government sites showcasing the country’s multi-agency, trauma-informed approach: the UP Manila Center for Gender and Women Studies, the repurposed Nasdake Building for DSWD operations, NAIA Terminal 3’s airport referral mechanism, and the Philippine Coast Guard’s BRP Melchora Aquino and BRP Teresa Magbanua.

At UP Manila–PGH, experts highlighted the importance of Women and Children Protection Units (WCPUs) in providing comprehensive, stigma-free support for survivors through integrated medical, psychosocial, and legal services. The rise in sexual abuse cases involving children, especially girls, emphasized the need for trauma-informed care delivered by trained specialists.

The study visit is part of the weeklong Bali Process meetings from December 1 to 5, which aim to enhance regional coordination on trafficking prevention, safe migration, returns, and sustainable reintegration.