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Photo from Department of Migrant Workers
The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) reminded students preparing for overseas internships to strictly comply with the laws and regulations of their host countries and to seek proper guidance before departure.
The advisory was emphasized during the Student Globalization Conference held at Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) in Manila.
The forum, themed “Education Beyond Borders,” was organized by LPU’s College of International Tourism and Hospitality Management (CITHM) in partnership with the CFO.
According to the CFO, the event supports its mandate of promoting the welfare and well-being of Filipinos leaving the country for overseas opportunities through pre-departure education.
Ann Mizer Hernandez, chief of the CITHM Practicum and Internship Department, underscored the importance of preparing students adequately as they pursue international training programs.
Marita del Rosario-Apattad, chief of the CFO’s Project Management Division, discussed the Exchange Visitor Program (EVP) between the Philippines and the United States.
Apattad clarified that the J-1 visa used by interns is “not a working visa.”
She cautioned participants against engaging in unauthorized employment while in the United States and reminded them to comply strictly with the activities stated in their DS-2019 forms.
Apattad added that EVP participants are required to return to the Philippines upon completing their program, in line with the objective of fostering cultural and educational exchange.
During the open forum, students asked about available assistance should problems arise overseas.
Apattad encouraged them to immediately reach out to Philippine authorities if needed and assured participants that the CFO coordinates with relevant government agencies to address concerns both in the United States and in the Philippines.
Rita Sescar, chief education program specialist from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), spoke about the role of international internships in advancing higher education globalization.
While highlighting potential benefits such as improved employability, workforce readiness, and cross-cultural exposure, Sescar also discussed challenges students may face abroad, including safety issues, cultural adjustment, and language barriers.
Janet Ramos of the CFO’s Migration Integration and Education Division led a session on human trafficking, explaining its elements and distinguishing it from illegal recruitment. She cited real-life cases to illustrate possible risks and informed students about the 1343 hotline for reporting suspected trafficking incidents.
CITHM Dean Dr. Lilibeth Aragon emphasized the shared responsibility of government agencies, academic institutions, and industry partners in safeguarding students by ensuring they are fully informed of their rights and protected against potential abuse and exploitation while abroad.