A Filipino couple recently returned to the Philippines after facing abuse from their employer in Laos, as reported by the Bureau of Immigration (BI). Initially departing for Malaysia as tourists in April 2023, the couple was later enticed to work as agents for an online casino in Laos, offering a monthly salary of P45,000. Their job involved recruiting Filipinos through a contact database.
Their journey took them from Malaysia to Bangkok, and finally to Laos, where they began working. However, their situation deteriorated in December when they started facing harassment and abuse from their employer.
In a desperate bid for freedom, the couple paid nearly P800,000. They reached out to a family member, who then sought assistance from the Philippine Embassy, leading to their eventual return. The couple arrived back in the Philippines at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 on January 12.
BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco highlighted the ordeal as a cautionary tale against bypassing legal employment channels. He urged citizens to adhere to immigration laws and regulations to avoid jeopardizing their safety and contributing to illegal activities that may result in exploitation.