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CEBU CITY — United States (US) Ambassador Harry Thomas in his first visit here has urged a tougher fight against human trafficking.
Citing the impact of such crime goes well beyond individual victims, “it undermines the foundation of our society and democracy.”
Thomas was here to attend the Combat Human Trafficking Forum organized by the International Justice Mission.
He said that trafficking affects public health, erodes government authority, undermines the rule of law, deprives countries of human capital, and fuels organized crime.
“The Philippines’ anti-trafficking law is a potent weapon, but effective enforcement is the key to success,” said Thomas.
It can be recalled that the US State Department recently released its annual report on Trafficking in Persons, and for the second straight year, it indicated that the Philippine government is making efforts to eliminate trafficking.
However, without significant increases in its anti-trafficking efforts, the country could face certain sanctions next year that will include the loss of all humanitarian, non-trade related foreign assistance, which amounts to some P11.4 billion.
The US government has already provided almost P300 million to anti-trafficking initiatives in the Philippines since 2005, including over P76 million last year and actively works to combat trafficking in persons through partnerships with local government, law enforcement and judicial officials, and non-government organizations.
“The challenge is to increase convictions of both labor and sex trafficking crimes, increased efforts to curb corruption that aids and abets trafficking, and more resources for anti-trafficking and victims protection programs,” Thomas added.
The US envoy also disclosed that since Cebu has become a destination and transit point for people trafficked domestically as the international airport here is “ground zero” for victims falling into the hands of traffickers abroad, “more action needs to be done.”
Thomas pointed out that the Philippines and the United States share a commitment to protect and promote respect for human rights and addressing the injustice of trafficking in persons – a modern-day form of slavery.
Meanwhile, the forum was attended by prosecutors, judges, law enforcement officials, and different representatives of local government units (LGUs) and government agencies who are in the front line for the enforcement of anti-trafficking laws and regulations.
Further, officials from Mandaue City and Lapu-Lapu City, this city and Cebu province presented various laws and local ordinances in line with the fight against anti-trafficking laws.
LGU efforts at solving the concern were also highlighted.
US envoy advocates stronger fight vs human trafficking | Manila Bulletin
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