The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has reported a significant surge in illegal recruitment cases during the first half of 2025, already surpassing the total number of cases handled throughout all of 2024.

DMW data shows that from January to June 2025, the agency handled 299 illegal recruitment cases, a sharp increase from the 71 cases recorded in all of 2024. The agency also reported that 14 establishments were closed for illegal recruitment in the first half of 2025, up from 11 during the same period last year.

DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac stated that the 299 cases primarily involved traditional, physical recruitment methods.

However, he noted the growing challenge of online scams. “But we are working hard to also develop a means so that it can be taken down. Obviously, there’s a technical challenge when it comes to online recruitment,” Cacdac said.

To address the rise in online-conducted scams, the DMW has partnered with TikTok through a memorandum of understanding to identify and remove misleading job offers on the platform. Peachy Paderna, TikTok Philippines Public Policy manager, stated that accounts with severe and repeated violations are targeted for removal.