ZAMBOANGA CITY, Aug 1 (PIA) -- With technology becoming part of most individuals’ lives, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-9 reminded the public to be responsible users; else they might be victims of human trafficking online.

DSWD-9 Regional Director Atty. Sittie Raifah P. Hassan emphasized that technological advancements come along with even greater challenges like the recruitment and exploitation of vulnerable sectors.

“Let us be reminded to guide each member of our family, relatives, and other colleagues to be responsible users of technology as human traffickers are now innovating thru online and in various social media platforms,” DSWD-9 Atty. Hassan said during the observance of World Day Against Trafficking in Person in Zamboanga City recently.

The director also lamented the fear it brings to the public especially to people who are not aware about the ‘modus operandi’ of human traffickers infiltrating online.

“The human traffickers are making use of technology so well. If we are not so careful and keen in identifying one, it might be too late for us,” Atty. Hassan added.

As of June 30, 2022, a total of 141 trafficked-in-person victims were served both old and new cases in Zamboanga Peninsula region and now provided with livelihood, medical, educational, financial and transportation assistance for those outside Zamboanga City.

More so, the Regional Inter-agency Council Against Trafficking (RIACAT) Task Force remains consistent in its effort to protect the vulnerable and to continuously monitor possible incidence of human trafficking in the area to include the cyber world.

The council has also launched the regional campaign initiative entitled “Ligaya” – a two-year in the making project of the member council of anti-human trafficking and migrant workers committee.

“Join us [general public] in our fight against exploitation, illegal recruitments and human trafficking!” Atty. Hassan concluded.

The commemoration this year was dubbed “use and abuse technology,” as a reminder to the public that with advanced technology today, public is more exposed and at high risks to be deceived of human traffickers. (NBE/JRA/PIA9-Zamboanga City)