DUBAI: Filipino workers abroad are being warned to stay alert as scams targeting overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) continue to evolve. Authorities urge workers to rely only on official government channels when seeking help.
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Where OFWs Can Safely Ask for Help
During emergencies such as conflict, job loss, or personal crisis, OFWs can request assistance through verified government agencies like the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Department of Migrant Workers, and Philippine embassies.
Support is available through:
- OWWA hotline 1348
- DMW overseas hotlines
- Embassy walk-ins
- Official WhatsApp, Viber, and email channels
Once a request is filed, authorities assess the situation and provide help such as shelter, food, medical care, or repatriation if needed.
Fake Travel Assistance: A Growing Trap
Officials have warned about scammers posing as government staff offering “paid” travel assistance.
Some fraudsters promise flight bookings or faster processing in exchange for money. However, government-arranged repatriation flights are free, and anyone charging fees is operating illegally.
OFWs are advised the following:
- Do not send money to unknown contacts
- Avoid dealing with unofficial agents
- Never share personal documents online
Fake Job Offers and Trafficking Risks
Authorities, including the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking, have reported cases where fake overseas jobs lead to exploitation.
Victims may arrive abroad only to find:
- Contracts changed without consent
- Jobs different from what was promised
- Dangerous assignments, including conflict zones
Note: Job offers with very high salaries or no proper documents should be treated as high risk. Workers should verify contracts through the DMW before accepting any offer.
Travel Clearance Scams Targeting Families
Parents are also being targeted by fake social media pages offering help with travel clearance for minors.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development warned that only official channels can process these documents. Applications should be filed at least 30 days before travel.
Unverified pages and agencies claiming “fast processing” should be avoided.
Special Warning for Seafarers in High-Risk Areas
Filipino seafarers operating in areas like the Arabian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz are facing increased risks due to regional tensions.
The DMW clarified that these are classified as “warlike areas.”
Seafarers have the right to refuse deployment without penalty, and shipowners must provide extra safety measures.
Stay Alert, Use Official Channels Only
Authorities stress that scams are becoming more sophisticated. The safest way to avoid them is simple: trust only verified government sources.
OFWs are encouraged to report suspicious activity immediately and stay informed through official advisories.