DMW-CAR reiterates warning against illegal recruitment

BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — The Department of Migrant Workers Cordillera (DMW-CAR) has reiterated its advice to the public, especially the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and those aspiring to work abroad, to be vigilant and cautious against illegal recruitment activities.
This is following the report of over 50 individuals from Cordillera who have fallen victims to illegal recruitment by a certain Sheena Mae Martinez Canlas and her associates between July and November 2025.
DMW records show that Canlas is not licensed or authorized to recruit for overseas employment.
DMW-CAR Regional Director Cheryl Daytec said that the victims were promised jobs in Japan but were denied entry upon arrival at the airport.
The victims shared that they were charged P150,000 to P200,000 in supposed processing and placement fees paid either directly to the recruiter or through intermediaries.
Some of the victims have already filed complaints for illegal recruitment and estafa at the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
The DMW-CAR recently held a coordinating meeting with the NBI-CAR to facilitate legal follow-up on the complaints and to ensure that investigations proceed thoroughly and properly.
“The NBI, tinututukan niya ang kasong ito. They told us na hindi nila pababayaan ito. We are actively collaborating with the NBI kasi kami rin sa DMW, gusto naming mapanagot itong mga manloloko,” Daytec said.
She shared that they continue to provide assistance in terms of legal, psychosocial, and prosecution for the victims of illegal recruitment activities.
Daytec emphasized that OFWs and aspiring OFWs must engage only with licensed recruitment agencies and individuals authorized by the DMW whose status can be verified through any DMW office or the DMW official website.
She said that legal recruitment fees are only limited to passport application, medical examination, and placement fees not exceeding one month’s salary.
Daytec reiterated the common signs of illegal recruitment like guaranteed employment, unusually high fees, payments made directly to unverified persons, and recruitments done only through personal referrals.
The public is urged to report suspected illegal recruitment activities in the region to the DMW-CAR Office at 17 Manongdo Building, Magsaysay Private Road, Baguio City. **DEG with report from DMW-CAR