As Filipinos mark Valentine’s Day, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) reminded overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to stay alert against online scammers who use romance as a trap to steal money and personal information.
In an advisory, the DMW cautioned the public against immediately trusting strangers met through online chats, saying some individuals may only be using sweet messages and emotional manipulation to take advantage of victims.
The agency noted that love scams have become one of the tactics being used by illegal recruiters and syndicates operating on social media, where fake identities and misleading offers can easily be created to lure unsuspecting OFWs.
The DMW explained that love scams often involve scammers presenting false profiles, gaining a victim’s trust, and later requesting money—sometimes under the pretext of sending gifts or packages.
The agency urged OFWs and their families to report suspicious activity linked to illegal recruitment and fake overseas job postings circulating online.
For reports and inquiries, the public may contact the DMW through Tel. No. (02) 87210619, email airtipinfo@dmw.com.ph, or via FB Messenger through the DMW Anti-Illegal Recruitment and Trafficking in Persons Program.
