Manila: Advocates and leaders in Negros Occidental have reaffirmed support to fight human trafficking in observance of the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons 2025 on Wednesday. The province marked the event with a panel discussion and the signing of a pledge of commitment led by Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, chair of the Provincial Committee Against Trafficking, Child Pornography, and Violence Against Women and Children (PCAT VP VAWC), at Ayala Malls Capitol Central Activity Center on Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the pledge of commitment stated, "In support of the global campaign against human trafficking, we pledge to work together in our lifetime to free the enslaved and restore the future of the trafficked." The panel discussion featured the programs and activities of the Voice of the Free and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Negros Occidental Federation Inc. to address or eliminate trafficking. Participants also formed a human monogram of a blue heart as part of the campaign themed 'Reach Every Victim of Trafficking, Leave No One Behind' at the Provincial Capitol Park and Lagoon.

In an interview on Wednesday, Provincial Gender and Development Focal Point System action officer Marie June Pavillar-Castro said the province supports the initiatives against human trafficking with partner-agencies and non-government organizations. She mentioned that OFW family circles and barangay associations can avail of the federation's programs and services and those who apply for overseas jobs can be oriented before working abroad.

The Voice of the Free discussed their advocacy campaigns in 17 schools and local government units to raise awareness among the youth on human trafficking and online sexual exploitation. This year's World Day Against Trafficking in Persons carried the theme 'Iisang Aksyon: Tapusin ang Trafficking Ngayon.'