Manila: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Monday reaffirmed its commitment to support survivors of human trafficking as the country observes National Anti-Trafficking Awareness Month 2026. As co-chair of the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT), the DSWD said it continues to strengthen programs that help trafficking victims recover and rebuild their lives.
According to Philippines News Agency, DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao emphasized that human trafficking is a severe human rights violation that deprives individuals of their fundamental rights and potential. She highlighted the need for a collective national effort to address the crime, emphasizing the importance of supporting victim-survivors in rebuilding their lives with dignity.
This year's observance carries the theme, 'Iisang Nasyon, Iisang Aksyon: Tapusin ang Human Trafficking Ngayon! (One Nation, One Action, End Human Trafficking Now),' which calls for a whole-of-nation effort to end human trafficking. The DSWD stands in solidarity with all the survivors and urges the public to remain vigilant, reporting any suspected trafficking cases to protect the most vulnerable.
Dumlao stated that the DSWD is committed to strengthening the Recovery and Reintegration Program for Trafficked Persons (RRPTP). This program provides a comprehensive package of services to help victims recover from trauma and reintegrate into their families and communities. Under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., national government agencies have been actively providing assistance and holding perpetrators accountable.
In 2025, the DSWD handled 2,476 reported trafficking cases, successfully reuniting 1,200 victim-survivors with their families and communities. The agency provided essential services, including psychosocial support, temporary shelter, case management, livelihood and educational assistance, and transportation aid to survivors.
Dumlao cited a recent case in Cebu City where two minors were rescued from a foreign national allegedly involved in child prostitution. The suspect was arrested following an anonymous report through the RRPTP Helpline. After the rescue, the DSWD Field Office 7-Central Visayas promptly provided psychosocial support and other interventions to the rescued children.
Dumlao concluded by urging the public to recognize the warning signs of trafficking, report suspicious activities, and foster communities that uphold the rights and welfare of every individual to help stop exploitation before it begins.
