The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) and the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) have signed an agreement to expand free legal assistance for Filipino migrants, especially victims or suspected victims of human trafficking, illegal recruitment, and other migration-related offenses.
CFO Secretary Dante Ang II and Chief Public Attorney Persida Rueda-Acosta formalized the memorandum of understanding at the PAO Central Office in Quezon City.
The CFO said the partnership seeks to strengthen coordination between the two agencies in helping overseas Filipinos and their families access legal representation, counseling, and other support services.
Under the agreement, the CFO will refer migrant clients in need of legal assistance to PAO for appropriate action. These include cases involving trafficking in persons, illegal recruitment, violations of the Anti-Mail Order Spouse Act, and violence against women and children.
Ang said the CFO has a mandate to protect the rights and welfare of Filipinos overseas and to support government efforts against human trafficking as a permanent member of the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking.
PAO, meanwhile, will provide legal representation to qualified clients referred by the CFO. When full representation is not available, it may still extend legal advice and other appropriate assistance.
Rueda-Acosta said the partnership may also cover legal education activities, including seminars, consultations, and training sessions for migrant communities and concerned stakeholders.
“The collaboration strengthens government efforts to protect Filipino migrants and ensure access to justice for vulnerable sectors,” the CFO said.