The Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) convened a special council meeting yesterday to address concerns surrounding the "2023 Revised IACAT Guidelines on Departure Formalities for International-Bound Filipino Passengers" (2023 Revised Guidelines).

The primary agenda of the special meeting was to deliberate on and approve a resolution suspending the implementation of the 2023 Revised Guidelines.

After careful deliberation, the IACAT Council approved the resolution, formally suspending the implementation of the 2023 Revised Guidelines.

The meeting further resolved that the IACAT shall revisit the 2023 Guidelines and shall further strengthen its information and education campaign to convey to the public the essential purpose and grave concerns that the 2023 Guidelines seek to address.

The decision to suspend the implementation of the 2023 Revised Guidelines is the council's response to concerns raised by the public and underscores its dedication not only to protect Filipino citizens against trafficking but also to clearly inform them of the protective mechanisms in place and how they work.

During the open forum that preceded the resolution's approval, all member agencies present expressed their shared and continued commitment to the fight against human trafficking and underscored that the Guidelines were intended to be a tool to enhance screening procedures against untruthful declarations; thus, protecting Filipino nationals from becoming victims of this heinous crime.

Likewise, they recognized the importance of striking a balance between safeguarding the individual's right to travel and ensuring national security.

The Council remains committed to working collaboratively with all relevant stakeholders, including the legislature, other government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international partners, to ensure a comprehensive and effective approach to combatting human trafficking in all its forms.