Human trafficking is not just a whole-of-government approach, but a whole-of-nation approach. The government cannot do it alone and requires a comprehensive approach where the citizenry, non-governmental organizations, business corporations and international partners work together to end modern slavery, Undersecretary of Justice in charge of the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking, Nicholas Felix Ty stated.

In a press release, the official underscored the unwavering efforts employed by the government to fight the problem, which has put the Philippines on the map among countries that have made significant progress in the fight against human trafficking.

To maintain that level, regional governments must demonstrate progress every year in the fight against human trafficking and must also meet minimum standards to eliminate trafficking, Ty said.

He added that, unfortunately, more often than not, human traffickers are members of one’s own family, making it difficult for law enforcement units to track or locate them.

Therefore, citizen support will play a crucial role in the state’s crusade to end modern slavery, he said.

The Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking is the agency in the Philippines tasked to coordinate and oversee the implementation of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003, with the Department of Justice as the lead agency.

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