The 15th Sangguniang Panlungsod expressed their support in the Illegal Recruitment-Free Local Government Units (IR-FREE LGUs) Campaign of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), in cooperation with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) by approving a resolution which authorizes the City Mayor Jane Censoria C. Yap to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement with the stated agencies.
The active support and participation of the City Government of Tagbilaran in the IR-FREE LGUs Campaign plays a vital role in the nationwide drive to stop the proliferation of illegal recruiters and unscrupulous individuals who are engaged in illegal and predatory activities, including fixers, scammers, and traffickers. The convergence of programs of the different government agencies shall enhance the empowerment and protection of the public and migrant workers and optimize the limited resources of the government.
Hon. Eliezer L. Borja, Chairperson of the Committee on Peace, Public Order and Safety and sponsor of the resolution stated that the Memorandum of Agreement will set forth the scope of cooperation and the roles and responsibilities of all agencies concerned for the effective implementation of all programs and activities against illegal recruitment and trafficking in persons in the City of Tagbilaran.
Community empowerment and protection are very important in order to create moral individuals and avoid criminal behavior.