Manila: The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Monday closed Buenas Hotel Services in Malate, Manila, after surveillance operations found the company allegedly engaging in illegal recruitment under the guise of offering low-cost 'training' for overseas hotel jobs. Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac led the closure of the 'training center' after it was discovered to be recruiting applicants without a license.

According to Philippines News Agency, the surveillance operatives discovered that the firm was deceiving applicants by charging them a relatively small fee of PHP4,500 for so-called training, which later escalated to exorbitant fees under the pretense of securing a hotel job abroad. This modus operandi involved training applicants in various skills like guest relations and front desk operations, promising job placement upon completion.

Cacdac explained that after the initial PHP4,500 training fee, applicants were required to pay up to PHP350,000 in total fees, including PHP80,000 for processing and PHP250,000 for placement. The promise of a job abroad without a proper license constitutes illegal recruitment.

The investigation revealed that Buenas Hotel Services was referring applicants to several private recruitment agencies, including ALJU Recruitment Agency, which had already been placed under preventive suspension following complaints from hundreds of alleged victims.

Cacdac noted that the DMW is conducting a thorough investigation into the case, including examining all potential partner agencies involved. Two victims reported to the DMW, claiming they paid up to PHP250,000 but were not deployed abroad, raising the possibility of large-scale illegal recruitment as more victims might emerge.

He confirmed that the owner of the company was caught offering a job to an undercover operative, and the DMW plans to file charges against the owner with the Department of Justice. The victims are receiving assistance from the DMW's Aksyon Fund, and others affected by the scheme are encouraged to report their experiences.

Cacdac emphasized that this crackdown is part of the government's intensified campaign against illegal recruitment, with the DMW aiming to double its enforcement efforts in 2025 and further expand in 2026.