Eleazar orders 'revitalization' of PNP task force vs. illegal recruitment

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is set to intensify its operations against illegal recruiters, according to its chief, Police General Guillermo Eleazar, on Friday.

“On orders of our Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Eduardo Año, I have signed a Memorandum Circular revitalizing the PNP Task Force Against Illegal Recruitment,” Eleazar said in a statement.

The circular effectively put the PNP Task Force Against Illegal Recruitment (PNP-TFAIR) into operation, the PNP said.

Eleazar signed the circular days after President Rodrigo Duterte asked the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to strengthen its efforts against illegal recruitment.

Duterte directed the department to have more manpower and police involvement in addressing the labor issue and suggested the creation of a unit or office in the PNP for anti-illegal recruitment efforts.

Under the memorandum circular, Eleazar said the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group will launch a crackdown against perpetrators.

The task force will also hold surveillance and entrapment operations on persons engaging in illegal recruitment including escort services at international airports and other ports of departure.

A priority target list will also be established.

“Part of this memorandum is working closely with other government agencies for the protection of our OFWs as our own little way of recognizing their big contribution to the economy over the years,” Eleazar said.

He also encouraged applicants to verify with the Philippine Overseas Employment Agency if the recruitment agency that they have been transacting with is legitimate. —Joviland Rita/KBK, GMA News