Ambassador Amatong briefing the sixth batch of 23 repatriates on 28 August 2024 before departure from the Wattay International Airport, Lao PDR. (Photo by the Philippine Embassy in Vientiane)

Vientiane, 30 August 2024 – The Philippine Embassy in Vientiane, Lao PDR, repatriated a total of 125 overseas Filipinos in seven days since 24 August, following the crackdown by the Lao authorities on illegal activities in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone (GTSEZ), Bokeo Province. The Filipinos fell victim to illegal cyberscam centers operating in the GTSEZ.

The Philippine Embassy in Vientiane and the Rapid Response Team of the DFA Office of the Undersecretary for Migration Affairs have been working round-the-clock, in cooperation with Lao authorities, for the rescue and extraction, processing of travel documents and exit clearances, and the smooth and unimpeded repatriation of the Filipino workers. The Embassy also provided accommodation in Bokeo and Vientiane, and attended to their medical and other needs. The Philippine Embassy in Bangkok, with the assistance of their Office of the Police Attache (OPA), has been supporting the operations through transit airport assistance for the repatriates and continuous coordination with Thai border authorities.

Ambassador Amatong expressed her wishes for those repatriated to recover from their difficult experience, and to be able to seek better and legitimate opportunities for themselves and their families. She also encouraged them to cooperate with Philippine authorities upon their return to prevent illegal recruitment, trafficking in persons, and undocumented work that many of them were subjected to. She assured them that the DFA is coordinating with the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT), DMW, OWWA, and other Philippine agencies to ensure their safety and welfare back in the Philippines.

The Philippine Embassy in Vientiane continues to provide support and all the necessary assistance to those in distress and seeking help. It is also working with the Lao government to ensure the protection of Filipinos who may still be remaining in the GTSEZ.