The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has pledged to continue its unwavering efforts in the fight against human trafficking and illegal recruitment, despite facing criticism from netizens.
In a statement, Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco emphasized that social media ridicule will not deter the BI from carrying out its duty to combat trafficking in ports.
"I have instructed our officers to keep doing their duties with dignity and patriotism. Social media ridicule will not deter us from performing our mandate to combat human trafficking in our ports," Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco said.
Tansingco expressed concern that syndicates are orchestrating a smear campaign against the BI in an attempt to weaken its resolve in the campaign against trafficking.
He has received reports of passengers behaving unruly during inspections, which hampers the officers' ability to perform their duties.
He reminded BI officers to maintain professionalism and requested respect from the traveling public towards uniformed personnel.
"Our officers are reminded to conduct their work professionally. We request that the traveling public likewise return the respect towards our uniformed personnel," said Tansingco.
Tansingco reiterated that the BI will not relent in its campaign as long as traffickers and illegal recruiters continue to prey on Filipino workers who are sent abroad without proper documents and government protection.
He urged officers to stay focused on their jobs, as their efforts are aimed at safeguarding Filipino nationals from abuse and maltreatment in foreign countries.
