The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has shut down three language training centers in Bulacan and Cebu for their alleged involvement in illegal recruitment and human trafficking. The simultaneous operations took place on the morning of May 16, 2025.
The targeted establishments include IWA Language Learning Center in Malolos, Bulacan; Aseanway Learning and Development Center in Calumpit, Bulacan; and another branch of Aseanway Learning and Development Center in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.
According to the DMW-Migrant Workers Protection Bureau (MWPB), these centers have been operating under the guise of providing language training but were allegedly involved in illegal recruitment activities. Trainees were reportedly charged between PHP 50,000 to PHP 70,000 for the promise of jobs in countries like Japan, Korea, and various European nations, working in sectors such as manufacturing, hospitality, agriculture, and fruit picking.
“Sa utos ng ating mahal na Presidente at ni Secretary (Hans Leo) Cacdac na lahat ng iligal na establisimiyento na nangangalap ng mga manggagawa nang walang lisensya mula sa DMW ay ating pong ipapasara,” stated DMW Undersecretary Bernard P. Olalia, who led the closure operation in Malolos.
MWPB Director Geraldine Mendez revealed that IWA Language Center began operations in 2025 and allegedly coordinated with partner recruitment agencies to place their trainees in overseas jobs without the necessary DMW license.
Assistant Secretary Jerome A. Alcantara spearheaded the operation in Calumpit, while MWPB Director III Eric D. Dollete led the closure of the Lapu-Lapu City branch. Both centers were found to be running the same illegal scheme.
Undersecretary Olalia emphasized that language centers licensed by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) are not authorized to recruit, refer, or procure workers for overseas employment. He further warned that the DMW is now investigating the identities of the registered owners of the three establishments, suspecting that they may be run by a single individual or a family.
“Sa utos ng ating mahal na Presidente at ng ating Secretary ng Department of Migrant Workers, hindi po magpapabaya ang MWPB ng DMW sa pagsugpo sa mga entities, mga persons na nagre-recruit at nagre-refer ng mga OFWs papuntang abroad ng walang lisensya,” Olalia declared, reaffirming the DMW’s commitment to protecting Filipino workers from exploitation.
