The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) arrested a South Korean national in Davao City for alleged illegal recruitment involving overseas jobs in South Korea.
Authorities identified the suspect only by the alias “Hyun,” 54 years old, who was apprehended during an entrapment operation conducted on May 4 at a residential complex along Quimpo Boulevard in Davao City.
According to a report submitted to CIDG Director Maj. Gen. Robert Morico II, the suspect was caught allegedly accepting placement fees from a victim in exchange for promised factory jobs in South Korea.
Investigators said the suspect allegedly offered employment opportunities in Seoul with a promised monthly salary of around KRW 2.2 million, or roughly P92,000, including free accommodation and meals.
Applicants were reportedly asked to pay a processing fee of P28,000 each.
Authorities said the suspect did not possess the required license or authority from the DMW to recruit workers for overseas employment, making the activity illegal under Philippine law.
Initial investigation showed that at least 40 individuals may have fallen victim to the scheme, including 19 residents from Davao City.
The operation forms part of the intensified nationwide campaign against illegal recruitment and human trafficking ordered by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and implemented under the guidance of PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr..
Morico said the government remains committed to protecting Filipino workers from illegal recruitment and exploitative job schemes, both locally and abroad.
He emphasized that Republic Act No. 8042, as amended by Republic Act No. 10022, seeks to strengthen the protection and welfare of migrant workers and overseas Filipinos.
The CIDG chief also commended CIDG Regional Field Unit 11, the CIDG Davao City Field Unit, and the DMW for the successful operation, which he said prevented more victims from losing their hard-earned money to fraudulent recruiters.
Authorities assured the public that operations against illegal recruitment syndicates and online job scams would continue nationwide.