Manila: Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Tuesday urged the government to immediately crack down on human trafficking syndicates allegedly using Pakistan as a new transit point to smuggle Filipinos abroad. He emphasized the urgent need for coordinated action among law enforcement agencies to combat this issue effectively.

According to Philippines News Agency, Gatchalian highlighted the rising number of trafficking victims and called for swift action from the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking to enhance border security and dismantle these criminal networks. He expressed concern over reports identifying Pakistan as a new route for human trafficking activities.

The senator suggested that individuals previously involved in Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) might be behind these illegal operations. He warned that these individuals could be exploiting unsuspecting Filipinos, urging the government to take immediate measures to address the situation.