Manila: Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac on Tuesday visited alleged human trafficking victims (HTVs) being sheltered at the newly established Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, reaffirming the Philippine government's commitment to provide assistance and bring them home safely.

According to Philippines News Agency, the visit was carried out in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to protect the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). During the visit, Secretary Cacdac met with the victims to understand their situation and immediate needs. He assured them of the Philippine government's full support, including legal assistance, temporary shelter, psychosocial services, and repatriation.

The DMW noted that Secretary Cacdac also inspected the facilities and arrangements at the MWO to ensure the victims were safe and properly cared for while awaiting further processing and their eventual return to the Philippines.

Meanwhile, Cacdac also checked on one of the alleged trafficking victims confined at the Intercare Hospital after being diagnosed with cholelithiasis, or gallstones. The DMW assured that it is closely monitoring the patient's condition and ensured necessary medical care and assistance.

While at the hospital, Cacdac also met with Filipino healthcare workers serving at the Intercare Hospital, commending them for their contribution to Cambodia's healthcare system.

Earlier, Cacdac also met with Cambodia's Minister of Labor and Vocational Training, Heng Sour, in Phnom Penh to boost cooperation between the two countries and promote the protection and welfare of OFWs in Cambodia. The two officials also discussed closer cooperation on fair employment standards, labor law compliance, social protection, and skills development, while reaffirming their shared commitment to promoting safe, orderly, and decent labor migration.