Two Dioceses Launch Campaigns Against Trafficking
The Diocesan Ministry against Human Trafficking (DMAT) of Novaliches and Antipolo, conducted re-echo seminars with the theme “Reach every victim of human trafficking, leave no one behind.” This is in line with the trainors’ training conducted by the Voice of the Free (VF) with support from Arise Foundation.
The Novaliches DMAT launched MATA (Mamamayan Laban sa Pangangalakal ng Tao or “Citizens Against Human Trafficking”) as a new regional campaign that will be cascaded to other dioceses in the Luzon island.
These historic gatherings were hosted by the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), Episcopal Commission of the Pastoral Care for Migrants (ECMI), in collaboration with the Quezon City Government and the Voice of the Free.
Novaliches Bishop Roberto O. Gaa, D.D., called for swift actions against trafficking as a crime against humanity as part of the church’s critical mission.
More than 150 church leaders and barangay residents were equipped with the knowledge and tools to detect red flag indicators of trafficking, especially online sexual exploitation of children. They recognized the need for a holistic approach to assisting and rehabilitating victims, starting with rescue from abuse, prosecution of offenders and reintegration into their families. They will integrate anti-trafficking programs to parish services including livelihood assistance, counseling and health care provision.
ECMI Executive Secretary Rev. Fr. Roger C. Manalo, traced inspiration of the anti-trafficking movements to the Social Teaching of the Church.
Meanwhile, Senator Risa Hontiveros, delivered a keynote speech3 at the Antipolo DMAT which launched a similar campaign last July 30 attended by 200 participants. She sponsored the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2022.
“It is mind-boggling to personally witness the scale of trafficking dens and the pitiful conditions of victims. We unearthed major crypto scamming operations in Indonesia and Vietnam which are based in Manila. More than a thousand multi-nationals are also rescued in Clark-Pampanga with an unbelievably highly-professional call center (set-up).”
In a related event, Policy Advocacy Consultant Roland Pacis trained leaders of the Knights of Columbus (KOC) last November 25 enabling them to understand the narratives, perspectives and needs of survivors, in a survivor-centric manner. He shared results of the research to highlight different pathways to support empowerment to survivors. The participants identified what practical tips to do and not to do in dealing with trafficking survivors at different stages of rescue, rehabilitation and reintegration.
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