Manila: The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Wednesday cautioned Filipinos anew against dubious overseas jobs after it repatriated 26 Filipinos from Cambodia.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DFA highlighted an advisory by the Philippine Embassy in Cambodia, urging Filipinos to remain vigilant and verify job opportunities abroad, particularly those advertised as 'customer service representatives (CSR)' or chat support positions. The advisory warned that these jobs often involve victimizing individuals through love scams or fake investment schemes.

The advisory noted that many Filipinos have either knowingly pursued or been misled by employment offers promising salaries ranging from USD800 to USD1,000 or more. Recruits reported that their recruiters did not provide employment contracts and instead arranged indirect travel routes, including flights through other regional airports or via sea channels in southern Philippines to avoid immigration checks.

The DFA confirmed the repatriation of 26 Filipinos from Oddar Meanchey Province in Cambodia but has not yet confirmed their profiles or whether they fell victim to scam operations in Southeast Asia. The repatriation effort demonstrated effective coordination between the Philippine Embassy and Cambodian authorities.

The DFA emphasized the strong diplomatic ties between the Philippines and Cambodia, showcasing both governments' commitment to cooperating on mutual concerns. Representatives from multiple government agencies, including the DFA, Department of Migrant Workers, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT), were present at the airport to welcome and assist the repatriates.

The DFA reiterated its commitment to the Assistance-to-Nationals mandate, ensuring it remains a priority for all Philippine Foreign Service Posts.