Senator Win Gatchalian on Friday lauded the decision of the Department of Justice, through the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking, to suspend the implementation of the revised travel guidelines for outbound passengers, describing it a "step in the right direction."

Gatchalian said the move should lead to the formulation of a "reasonable and purposeful" policy that would effectively deter the human trafficking activities in the country.

"This is a chance for IACAT, the Bureau of Immigration and other concerned agencies to critically assess any requirement for travel that they may impose on Filipinos bound for abroad, ensuring that the well-being of the public remains at the forefront of policy-making endeavors," Gatchalian said.

While the government is intent on addressing human trafficking, Gatchalian said it should also pay attention to the illegal entry of foreigners involved in criminality through the influence of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators.