At least five women who authorities said could be victims of trafficking in persons were rescued in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.

According to the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD), the victims, who came from Manila, arrived at the airport in Bongao on September 8, 2025.

The 1st Special Operation Unit (SOU) Maritime Group said the victims were left stranded at the airport after no one arrived to pick them up as promised.

The victims then went to the Tourism Office to seek help.

They said they were recruited through an online platform where they were offered free travel tour and a job opportunity with a promised salary of P50,000.

The victims reported the incident to authorities after they could no longer reach their supposed recruiter.

The SOU team and other operating units rescued the victims who were staying temporarily at an apartment in Barangay Tubig Boh.

They were then turned over to the MSSD Zamboanga Satellite Office where they were given food, temporary accommodation, and transportation to Zamboanga City.

MSSD workers also conducted counseling sessions and raised awareness on the risks of irregular migration and human trafficking.

“Nakikipag-ugnayan din ang MSSD sa Recovery and Reintegration Program for Trafficked Persons (RRPTP) ng Zamboanga City upang matiyak na makakakuha pa ang mga biktima ng karagdagang tulong,” the MSSD said.