Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29) - Philippines (Ratification: 2005)

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2020, published 109th ILC session (2021)

The Committee takes note of the supplementary information provided by the Government in light of the decision adopted by the Governing Body at its 338th Session (June 2020). The Committee proceeded with the examination of the application of the Convention on the basis of the supplementary information received from the Government this year, as well as on the basis of the information at its disposal in 2019.

Articles 1(1), 2(1) and 25 of the Convention. Trafficking in persons. Law enforcement measures and penalties. The Committee previously requested the Government to provide information on the measures taken to strengthen the capacity of law enforcement agencies and the activities undertaken within the framework of the National Strategic Action Plan for 2012–2016.

The Committee notes the Government’s indication in its report that the Anti-Trafficking Task Forces all over the country have conducted a total of 136 training, capacity-building and seminars on trafficking in persons and other related topics which were attended by a total of 6,593 participants. Some 2,098 came from private sectors and non-government organizations while 4,495 were government personnel. The Committee further notes the Government’s indication in its supplementary report that in 2019, the Anti-Trafficking Task Forces conducted training on trafficking in persons for the purpose of labour exploitation for 130 members of government agencies. In addition, the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) conducted training on handling trafficking in persons and victim protection.

The Government also indicates in its report of 2019 that the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is in the final drafting stage of the creation of the NBI Manual and Standard Operating Procedures for Trafficking in persons and online sexual exploitation of children cases. This aims to improve the efficiency of investigations and operations involving trafficking in persons and online sexual exploitation of children cases. Moreover, in 2018, the NBI conducted 32 operations nationwide causing the arrest of 67 offenders and the rescue of 620 victims, 123 of whom are minors. There were a total of 201 illegal recruitment cases, 75 (37 per cent) of which were filed in Court. The National Police has investigated a total of 300 trafficking in persons cases, which resulted in the rescue of 1,039 victims and the arrest of 498 suspects. The Committee further notes that in 2019, the NBI conducted 55 anti-trafficking operations, resulting in the arrest of 234 offenders, and the rescue of 504 victims. In addition, the national police investigated 153 cases of trafficking in persons, rescued 729 victims and arrested 222 suspects. According to the Government, the establishment of 24 Anti-Trafficking Task Forces in the country with 226 prosecutors significantly contributed to the increase in the prosecution of cases of trafficking in persons. In 2019, the Anti-Trafficking Task Forces comprised 236 prosecutors, enhancing local law enforcement, including in rescue operations, to ensure that cases are reported and filed with the local prosecutor. The Committee notes that in 2018, a total number of 88 persons were convicted, in comparison with 48 in 2017. In 2019, 76 convictions were pronounced for cases of trafficking in persons, with a total of 85 persons convicted.

The Committee notes that a 2017–2021 National Strategic Action Plan against trafficking in persons (Strategic Action Plan) has been adopted. In this regard, the Government indicates in its supplementary report that the Strategic Action Plan details core programmes and planned outcomes by key result areas: (i) prevention and advocacy; (ii) protection, recovery, rehabilitation and reintegration; (iii) prosecution and law enforcement; and (iv) partnership and networking. The IACAT is responsible for monitoring the full implementation, cooperation and coordination of the national anti-trafficking response. As part of the implementation of the Strategic Action Plan, six anti-trafficking task forces were established to intercept the operations of suspected trafficking at points of entry on land, and in airports and seaports, resulting in the interception of six alleged offenders in 2019 and the rescue of 1,002 victims. In addition, an Anti-Trafficking capacity-building module was developed for local government units to strengthen their capacity to provide concrete responses in addressing trafficking in persons. Committees on anti-trafficking and violence against women were created in a large number of provinces, cities and municipalities of the country. In the area of prevention and advocacy, educational and awareness communication materials were developed on specific types of trafficking.

The Committee also observes from the UNICEF 2016 Summary Report on Situation Analysis of Children in the Philippines that domestic and cross-border trafficking of women and children for sexual exploitation continues, with 1,465 victims of trafficking assisted in 2015, and sex tourism reportedly on the rise (page 24). Taking due note of the measures adopted by the Government, the Committee requests it to continue taking measures to strengthen the capacity of law enforcement bodies to combat trafficking in persons and identify victims of trafficking, as well as to provide statistical information on the number of legal proceedings initiated, convictions handed down and penalties imposed. The Committee also requests the Government to continue indicating the measures that have been taken to implement the 2017–2021 National Strategic Action Plan against trafficking in persons, and the results achieved in this regard.

Complicity of law enforcement officials in trafficking activities. The Committee notes the Government’s indication in its supplementary report according to which the IACAT applies a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of complicity by government officials in cases of trafficking. Reports of allegations against government officials are therefore thoroughly investigated. In 2019, most allegations of government complicity in cases of trafficking in persons involved illegal activities at the country’s entry and exit points. Several measures were taken to combat the involvement of government officials in corrupt practices, including: (i) investigations of alleged trafficking in persons networks at airports, of immigration officials identified as having facilitated trafficking in persons, and of the Regional Consular Office in Cobato where most fraudulent passports were issued; and (ii) the monitoring of personnel at the Bureau of Immigration during inspections of passengers leaving the country.

The Government indicates that five officials were convicted for cases relating to trafficking in persons between 2009 and 2020, including three police officers. All were sentenced to life imprisonment. The Government further indicates that the IACAT is developing a guideline to investigate and resolve corruption cases related to trafficking in persons. The Committee requests the Government to pursue its efforts to ensure that complicit law enforcement officials are subject to thorough investigations and prosecutions, and that appropriate and dissuasive penalties are imposed. It requests the Government to continue providing information on the number of cases registered and prosecuted, as well as the sanctions imposed.

Protection and assistance to victims. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the Department of Social Workers and Development (DSWD) implements the Recovery and Reintegration Program for Trafficked Persons (RRPTP) since 2011. The RRPTP is a comprehensive programme that ensures that adequate recovery and reintegration services are provided to trafficked persons. Utilizing a multi-sectoral approach, it delivers a complete package of services that will enhance the psychosocial, social and economic needs of the victims. It also enhances the awareness, skills and capabilities of the families and the communities where the trafficked persons will eventually return. It also improves community-based systems and mechanisms that ensure the recovery of the victims, and prevents other families and community members from being victims of trafficking. In 2018, according to the DSWD, the RRPTP served and assisted a total of 2,318 identified trafficked persons, of whom 1,732 (75 per cent) are women while 611 (26 per cent) are minors. The Government further indicates in its supplementary report that in 2019, the RRPTP served and assisted 2,041 victims of trafficking. In addition, financial assistance was provided to 27 victims through the Victim Compensation Programme of the Department of Justice in 2019. A total of 291 victim-witnesses also received assistance under the Victim-Witness Coordinator Programme, which is a pilot project aimed at encouraging cooperation during the investigation, prosecution and trial of cases of trafficking in persons. The Government adds that the IACAT Operations Centre (OpCen) serves as a referral centre for victim protection and assistance, including referrals to reintegration services. In 2019, OpCen provided transportation and security assistance to 171 victims of trafficking in persons.

The Government also indicates that in June 2018, a Residential Care Facility for Male Victims of Trafficking in Mindanao was set up in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of Tagum City. It aims to provide services in recovery, rehabilitation and reintegration of trafficked victims. As of 2018, there were 44 residential care facilities available in the country for victims of trafficking: 24 for children; 13 for women; 1 for men; 4 for older persons; and 2 for processing centres. The Committee requests the Government to continue to take measures to ensure that appropriate protection and assistance is provided to victims of trafficking and to provide statistical information on the number of victims who have been identified, as well as those who have benefited from the RRPTP services.

Articles 1(1) and 2(1). Vulnerable situation of migrant workers with regard to the exaction of forced labour. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that, the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Health, Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Interior and Local Government, Manila International Airport Authority, Philippine Overseas Employment Administration and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, issued a joint memorandum circular No. 2017-0001 dated 16 June 2017 entitled “Integrated Policy Guidelines and Procedures in the Implementation of the Inter-Agency Medical Repatriation Program (IMRAP) for Overseas Filipinos”. This programme aims to establish an integrated system and process flow in medical repatriation among appropriate government agencies and stakeholders. In addition, the Government indicates that the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) provides overseas jobseekers with Pre-Employment Orientation Seminar (PEOS) on, for example, legal modes of recruitment, the procedures and documentary requirements when applying for jobs, and the government services available to overseas job applicants and hired workers. For 2018, the POEA conducted community-based PEOS with a total of 30,517 participants, among them 9,935 males, 10,848 females and 9,736 with unspecified sex. The POEA has also entered into partnerships with 50 local government units and one non-government organization and conducted 48 anti-illegal recruitment and anti-trafficking in persons seminar nationwide, with 1,695 male participants and 1,544 female participants. The Committee notes the Government’s indication in its supplementary report that prior to the departure of Filipino workers abroad, the Department of Labour and Employment ensures that all workers are properly documented. Pre-departure and post-arrival orientation seminars are also organized.

To address the vulnerability of overseas Filipino workers, particularly female domestic workers, the Government indicates that it has concluded bilateral labour agreements with destination countries and conducts regular dialogue with them to ensure that workers’ rights and welfare are protected. In addition, the Philippine overseas labour offices (POLOs) intervened in 40 countries to help workers address issues and concerns related to their working conditions and welfare, including shelter, repatriation assistance and other welfare services. From July 2016 to May 2020, 3,000,506 overseas Filipino workers received on-site assistance from the POLOs. Furthermore, the Government indicates that the overseas Filipino workers command centre (OCC) of the Department of Labour and Employment ensures that all workers’ concerns are addressed promptly. The OCC serves as the 24/7 central referral and action centre for all migrant workers’ inquiries. The Government states that, from 2018 to 2020, a considerable number of private recruitment agency licences were cancelled due to violations of recruitment laws and regulations, and a number of recruiters were convicted.

Taking due note of the measures adopted by the Government, the Committee requests it to ensure that migrant workers are fully protected from abusive practices and conditions that amount to the exaction of forced labour. The Committee also requests the Government to continue to supply information on the pre-departure services provided for migrant workers, indicating also the number of migrant workers victims of forced labour practices and the assistance received in such cases. Lastly, the Committee requests the Government to indicate the number of recruiters convicted for illegal practices and the penalties imposed in this regard.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2019, published 109th ILC session (2021)

Articles 1(1), 2(1) and 25 of the Convention. Trafficking in persons. Law enforcement measures and penalties. The Committee previously requested the Government to provide information on the measures taken to strengthen the capacity of law enforcement agencies and the activities undertaken within the framework of the National Strategic Action Plan for 2012–16.

The Committee notes the Government’s indication in its report that the Anti-Trafficking Task Forces all over the country have conducted a total of 136 training, capacity-building and seminars on trafficking in persons and other related topics which were attended by a total of 6,593 participants. Some 2,098 came from private sectors and non-government organizations while 4,495 were government personnel. The Government also indicates that the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is in the final drafting stage of the creation of the NBI Manual and Standard Operating Procedures for Trafficking in persons and online sexual exploitation of children cases. This aims to improve the efficiency of investigations and operations involving trafficking in persons and online sexual exploitation of children cases. Moreover, in 2018, the NBI conducted 32 operations nationwide causing the arrest of 67 offenders and the rescue of 620 victims, 123 of whom are minors. There were a total of 201 illegal recruitment cases, 75 (37 per cent) of which were filed in Court. The National Police has investigated a total of 300 trafficking in persons cases, which resulted in the rescue of 1,039 victims and the arrest of 498 suspects. According to the Government, the establishment of 24 Anti-Trafficking Task Forces in the country with 226 prosecutors significantly contributed to the increase in the prosecution of trafficking in persons cases. The Committee notes that in 2018, a total number of 88 persons were convicted, in comparison to 48, in 2017. The Committee notes that a 2017–21 National Strategic Action Plan Against Trafficking in Persons has been adopted. It also observes from the UNICEF 2016 Summary Report on Situation Analysis of Children in the Philippines that domestic and cross-border trafficking of women and children for sexual exploitation continues, with 1,465 victims of trafficking assisted in 2015, and sex tourism reportedly on the rise (page 24). Taking due note of the measures taken by the Government, the Committee requests the Government to continue to take measures to strengthen the capacity of law enforcement bodies to combat trafficking in persons and to identify victims of trafficking, and to provide statistical information on the number of legal proceedings initiated, convictions handed down and penalties imposed. The Committee also requests the Government to provide a copy of the 2017–21 National Strategic Action Plan against Trafficking in Persons, indicating the measures taken within its framework and the results achieved.

Complicity of law enforcement officials in trafficking activities. The Committee notes the relevant points from the Court of Appeals Decision of 2018, in which the accused was acquitted for lack of evidence of complicity in a case of trafficking. The Committee notes that the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, in its concluding observations of October 2016, expressed concern at the persistently high incidence of trafficking in women and children; the very small number of prosecutions and convictions of traffickers; the insufficient level of understanding of the issues relating to trafficking and the anti-trafficking legal framework among law enforcement officials; and the allegations of complicity of law enforcement officials in the cases related to trafficking in persons (E/C.12/PHL/CO/5–6, paragraph 41). The Committee requests the Government to strengthen its efforts to ensure that complicit law enforcement officials are subject to thorough investigations and prosecutions, and that appropriate and dissuasive penalties are imposed. It requests the Government to provide updated information on the number of cases registered and prosecuted, as well as the sanctions imposed.

Protection and assistance to victims. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the Department of Social Workers and Development (DSWD) implements the Recovery and Reintegration Program for Trafficked Persons (RRPTP) since 2011. The RRPTP is a comprehensive programme that ensures that adequate recovery and reintegration services are provided to trafficked persons. Utilizing a multi-sectoral approach, it delivers a complete package of services that will enhance the psychosocial, social and economic needs of the victims. It also enhances the awareness, skills and capabilities of the families and the communities where the trafficked persons will eventually return. It also improves community-based systems and mechanisms that ensure the recovery of the victims, and prevents other families and community members from being victims of trafficking. In 2018, according to the DSWD, the RRPTP served and assisted a total of 2,318 identified trafficked persons, of whom 1,732 (75 per cent) are women while 611 (26 per cent) are minors. The Government also indicates that in June 2018, a Residential Care Facility for Male Victims of Trafficking in Mindanao was set up in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of Tagum City. It aims to provide services in recovery, rehabilitation and reintegration of trafficked victims. As of 2018, there were 44 residential care facilities available in the country for victims of trafficking: 24 for children; 13 for women; 1 for men; 4 for older persons; and 2 for processing centres. The Committee requests the Government to continue to take measures to ensure that appropriate protection and assistance is provided to victims of trafficking and to provide statistical information on the number of victims who have been identified, as well as those who have benefited from the RRPTP services.

Articles 1(1) and 2(1). Vulnerable situation of migrant workers with regard to the exaction of forced labour. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that, the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Health, Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Interior and Local Government, Manila International Airport Authority, Philippine Overseas Employment Administration and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, issued Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2017-0001 dated 16 June 2017 entitled “Integrated Policy Guidelines and Procedures in the Implementation of the Inter-Agency Medical Repatriation Program (IMRAP) for Overseas Filipinos”. This programme aims to establish an integrated system and process flow in medical repatriation among appropriate government agencies and stakeholders. In addition, the Government indicates that the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) provides overseas jobseekers with Pre-Employment Orientation Seminar (PEOS) on for example, legal modes of recruitment, the procedures and documentary requirements when applying for jobs, and the government services available to overseas job applicants and hired workers. For 2018, the POEA conducted community-based PEOS with a total of 30,517 participants, among them 9,935 males, 10,848 females and 9,736 with unspecified sex. The POEA has also entered into partnerships with 50 local government units and one non-government organization and conducted 48 anti-illegal recruitment and anti-trafficking in persons seminar nationwide, with 1,695 male participants and 1,544 female participants.

The Committee further observes that in its concluding observations, the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) welcomed the adoption, in 2010, of the amended Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act of 1995 (Republic Act No. 10022) to protect migrant workers working in the state party. It was concerned, however, at the widespread exploitation and abuse of Filipina migrant workers working abroad, in particular as domestic workers, and the insufficient support provided to reintegrate those who return (CEDAW/C/PHL/CO/7–8, paragraph 37). Taking due note of the measures taken by the Government, the Committee requests it to ensure that migrant workers are fully protected from abusive practices and conditions that amount to the exaction of forced labour. The Committee also requests the Government to continue to supply information on the pre-departure services provided for migrant workers, indicating also the assistance received in case of forced labour practices.

Replies received to the issues raised in a direct request which do not give rise to further comments (CEACR) - adopted 2016, published 106th ILC session (2017)

The Committee notes the information provided by the Government, which answers the points raised in its previous direct request and has no further matters to raise in this regard.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2016, published 106th ILC session (2017)

Articles 1(1), 2(1) and 25 of the Convention. Trafficking in persons. Law enforcement measures and penalties. The Committee notes the Government’s indication in its report that the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) has been implementing and monitoring cases of trafficking in persons through a certain number of measures and programmes, including: (i) the second National Strategic Action Plan for 2012–16 that provides for a medium-term roadmap for the implementation of the Government’s plans, programmes and activities against trafficking; (ii) the Public Assistance Corner, as a tool wherein the public can report or share information on trafficking in persons; (iii) the development of the Manual on the Labour Dimension of Trafficking in Persons, which is designed to provide law enforcement bodies with conceptual clarity on forced labour/trafficking, and victim-related issues; and (iv) the establishment of Law Enforcement Task Forces Against Trafficking in Persons and Quick Reaction Team (QRT), composed of prosecutors, law enforcement investigators, welfare officers and NGOs acting in hotspot areas, including sea spots, airports and land terminals all over the country. As of 2015, 24 existing anti-trafficking task forces have been established. All task forces are an indispensable part in the rescue operations, and prosecution of traffickers. The Committee further notes that according to the statistics contained in the website of the IACAT, there were 259 convictions pronounced for trafficking in persons as of 31 August 2016, with a total of 282 persons condemned to imprisonment ranging from six years to life imprisonment. The Committee requests the Government to continue to take measures to combat trafficking in persons and to continue to strengthen the capacity of law enforcement agencies in identifying victims and dealing with the complaints received. The Committee also requests the Government to provide information on the activities within the framework of the second National Strategic Action Plan for 2012–16, as well as the results achieved in combating trafficking in persons. Lastly, the Committee requests the Government to continue to provide information on the number of investigations, prosecutions and the penalties imposed with regard to cases of trafficking in persons.

Complicity of law enforcement officials in trafficking activities. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the Department of Justice promptly investigates all employees reported to be involved in acts of trafficking, and imposes administrative sanctions on those who were found liable after due process of law. The Government also refers to the case of two employees from the Bureau of Immigration who were found guilty of violation of the 2003 Anti-Trafficking Act, by facilitating the exit of a passenger despite having in their possession fake documents, with intent to work in another country. They were sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment and a fine. The Committee encourages the Government to continue to take measures to ensure that all persons who engage in trafficking in persons, including complicit government officials, are subject to thorough investigations and prosecutions, and that sufficiently effective and dissuasive penalties are applied in practice. The Committee requests the Government to continue to provide information in this respect.

Protection and assistance to victims. The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the IACAT 1343 Actionline Against Human Trafficking, as a hotline service, has been established to receive and respond to requests for assistance, inquiries and/or referrals relating to trafficking. In 2015, the Actionline received a total of 62 reports. Some 25 of these reports were confirmed to be trafficking cases which resulted in 62 victims (32 male and 30 female victims) being given assistance and appropriate referrals. The Committee further notes the statistical information provided by the Government for 2015. It notes, in particular, that a total of 198 rescue and entrapment operations were conducted by IACAT Task Forces resulting in the rescue of 430 victims and the arrest of 132 perpetrators. Moreover, the National Bureau of Investigation Anti-trafficking Division (NBI–AHTRAD) conducted 48 operations that led to the rescue of 303 trafficking victims and the arrest of 151 offenders. All these operations resulted in filed cases, where 35 are presently under preliminary investigation and 34 cases have already been filed in court. The Government also indicates that in 2015, the IACAT secretariat received 364 deferred departure incidents involving 3,587 passengers who were endorsed to the port-based task force. In the conduct of the investigations, 18 of these incidents were found to be actual cases of trafficking in persons. With regard to the shelters provided to the victims, the Government indicates that in addition to shelters operated by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and NGOs, the IACAT Operation Centre (OPCEN) established a temporary shelter for witnesses and trafficking victims. It served as a temporary holding area for the rescued victims who were eventually turned over the DSWD for the provision of protection services. As a support centre, the OPCEN assists service providers in investigation, prosecution and protection of victims. The OPCEN greatly contributed to the prosecution of trafficking cases, by persuading a total of 75 victims/witnesses in different areas in the country and escorting them to attend their respective court hearings.

The Committee takes due note of the different measures taken by the Government to provide assistance to victims of trafficking. Furthermore, the Committee notes that while welcoming the efforts made by the Government to prevent and combat trafficking in persons, the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), in its concluding observations of 22 July 2016, noted with concern that the Government remains a source country for international and internal trafficking, including for sexual exploitation, forced labour and domestic servitude. The CEDAW pointed out, among other aspects, the lack of designated shelters for victims of trafficking as well as support for rehabilitation and reintegration (CEDAW/C/PHL/CO/7-8, paragraph 27).

The Committee encourages the Government to continue to take measures to provide appropriate protection and assistance to victims of trafficking. The Committee also requests the Government to provide information on the different measures taken to facilitate the subsequent reintegration of victims of trafficking into society.

Articles 1(1) and 2(1). Vulnerable situation of migrant workers with regard to the exaction of forced labour. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) has stepped up its campaign against abusive practices of private recruitment agencies. In 2014, some 54 private recruitment agencies’ licences were cancelled by the POEA on account of unethical recruitment practices and violations of Philippine migration laws and regulations such as misrepresentation, illegal collection of placement fees, non-issuance of appropriate receipts, and disregard of orders, notices and other legal processes. The POEA has also adopted a “no placement fee policy” to all destination countries which prohibit such charges to the migrant workers, to vulnerable workers like domestic workers and to Filipino seafarers working on board foreign flag vessels. In 2015, a joint Manual of Operations in Providing Assistance to Migrant Workers and other Filipinos Overseas was signed by six government agencies. The Manual outlines the roles and responsibilities of the respective agencies and overseas offices to provide assistance services, including legal and medical aid to Filipino migrant workers. The Committee takes due note of this information, and requests the Government to continue to take measures to ensure that migrant workers are fully protected from abusive practices and conditions that amount to the exaction of forced labour. The Committee also requests the Government to provide statistics on the number of migrant workers who have benefited from POEA services, in terms of assistance received in case of forced labour practices.

The Committee is raising matters points in a request addressed directly to the Government.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2013, published 103rd ILC session (2014)

Articles 1(1) and 2(1) of the Convention. Freedom of career members of the armed forces to leave the service. The Committee previously noted that section 16 of the Presidential Decree No. 1638, as amended by Presidential Decree No. 1650, states that an officer may resign his commission and shall be separated from the service upon acceptance by the President of such resignation. It observed that, pursuant to this provision, the resignation of officers may be rejected. In this regard, the Committee recalled that career military servicemen who have voluntarily entered into an engagement should have the right to leave the service in peacetime within a reasonable period, either at specified intervals, or with previous notice. Noting the absence of information on this point in the Government’s report, the Committee once again expresses the hope that measures will be taken to ensure that career members of the armed forces will enjoy fully the right to leave their service in peacetime at their own request, within a reasonable period, either at specified intervals, or with previous notice, in conformity with the Convention. The Committee requests the Government to provide available information on the application in practice of section 16 of Presidential Decree No. 1638, particularly the number of applications to resign that have been accepted or refused and information on the grounds for refusal.

Article 2(2)(a). Compulsory military service laws. The Committee previously noted that article 2, section 4, of the Constitution states that all citizens may be required, under conditions provided by law, to render personal, military or civil service. Pursuant to sections 3 and 51 of the National Defence Act, military service is compulsory for all citizens of the Philippines, and under sections 3 and 7 of Republic Act No. 7077, the mission of the citizen armed forces includes assisting in socio-economic development. The Committee also noted the Government’s indication that the socio-economic development projects of the armed forces of the Philippines included poverty reduction and infrastructure projects, including the construction of school buildings, health centres, roads, multi-purpose buildings, bridges, electrification and water systems.

Noting an absence of information on this point in the Government’s report, the Committee once again reminds the Government that under Article 2(2)(a) of the Convention, work or service exacted by virtue of compulsory military service laws may be excluded from the scope of the Convention only if performed for purely military ends. The Committee therefore requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that services exacted through compulsory recruitment are used for purely military ends, in law and practice. It requests the Government to provide information on measures taken in this regard to ensure conformity with the Convention.

Article 25. Penalties for the exaction of forced or compulsory labour. The Committee previously noted that the Penal Code provisions prohibiting slavery (section 272), services rendered under compulsion in payment of debts (section 274) and grave coercion (which includes, inter alia, compelling a person by means of violence or intimidation to do something against his/her will) (section 286) provide for penalties of imprisonment and fines. The Committee once again requests the Government to provide information, in its next report, on the application in practice of sections 272, 274 and 286 of the Penal Code.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2013, published 103rd ILC session (2014)

Articles 1(1), 2(1) and 25 of the Convention. Trafficking in persons. 1. Law enforcement measures. The Committee previously noted the information from a March 2012 report of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) that men, women and children are trafficked inside and outside the Philippines for the purpose of prostitution, involuntary domestic service and forced labour in industries, manufacturing, fisheries, agriculture and construction. This report indicated that a lack of understanding of trafficking and the anti-trafficking legislation among many judges, prosecutors, social service workers, and law enforcement officials remains an impediment to successful prosecutions.

The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the Department of Labour and Employment developed a manual of procedures in handling complaints of trafficking in persons, and that it has carried out several trainings for officials on the issue of trafficking. The Government also indicates that the creation of regional offices of the Department of Labour and Employment resulted in the rescue of 375 victims of trafficking for labour exploitation in 2012, and that the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) carried out, with international cooperation, rescue and assistance missions for 21 such victims in three countries in the region. According to the information available on the IACAT website, there were 99 persons convicted for trafficking-related offences between 1 July 2010 and 1 July 2013. The Committee also notes the statement in the report of the Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons, especially women and children, of 19 April 2013 that the Philippines faces significant challenges as a source country for trafficking, with its citizens being trafficked to different countries of the world. This report also states that the prosecution rate for this offence remains very low, perpetuating the impunity of traffickers and obstructing victims’ access to justice (A/HRC/23/48/Add.3, paragraphs 3 and 80). The Committee requests the Government to strengthen its efforts to combat trafficking in persons, and to ensure that thorough investigations and robust prosecutions are carried out against perpetrators of this offence. It requests the Government to continue to provide information on measures taken by the IACAT, and on the results achieved, particularly with regard to the number of investigations, prosecutions, convictions and the penalties applied.

2. Complicity of law enforcement officials in trafficking activities. The Committee previously noted the indication in the ITUC report that the police are often complicit with traffickers. While some officers had been suspended, there had been no convictions of officers for complicity in trafficking activities.

The Committee notes the Government’s statement that it is aware that corruption plays an important role in undermining anti-trafficking efforts, and thus the Department of Justice focuses on prosecuting government officials and elected persons involved in facilitating and promoting trafficking. In this regard, the Government indicates that government officials who were found to be involved in acts of trafficking were subject to investigation, and that 27 administrative cases have been filed against 67 government employees for their alleged involvement in human trafficking. However, the Committee also notes the statement in the report of the Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons, especially women and children, that despite widespread acknowledgement of the problem by Government officials, deep-rooted corruption at all levels of law enforcement continues to be a major obstacle in identification of trafficked persons, and that in numerous cases, law enforcement officials were directly implicated in trafficking cases (A/HRC/23/48/Add.3, paragraph 43). The Committee once again expresses concern at allegations of complicity of government officials with human traffickers and strongly urges the Government to strengthen its efforts to combat this phenomenon. It requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that government officials complicit with human traffickers are prosecuted and that sufficiently effective and dissuasive criminal penalties are imposed in practice. It requests the Government to continue to provide information on measures taken in this regard, in its next report.

Articles 1(1) and 2(1). Vulnerable situation of migrant workers with regard to the exaction of forced labour. The Committee previously noted the information from the ITUC that a great proportion of the 2 million Filipinos working abroad are female domestic workers in Asia and the Middle East, who frequently experience abuses including unpaid wages, food deprivation, forced confinement in the workplace, and physical and sexual abuse. Traffickers often present themselves as recruiters and use fraudulent recruitment practices, hiring fees, use of violence, withholding of travel documents and salaries, psychological intimidation and other practices, to force their victims into work. It also noted that the Committee on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families (CMW), in its concluding observations of 22 May 2009, expressed concern that, despite the Government’s efforts to protect the rights of Filipino migrant workers abroad, abuse and exploitation continue, especially of women migrants. The CMW also expressed concern at claims that private recruitment agencies continue to overcharge fees for their services and act as intermediaries for foreign recruiters, which may increase the vulnerability of migrants. The CMW further expressed concern about the significant number of Filipino workers abroad who are victims of trafficking (CMW/C/PHL/CO/1, paragraphs 31, 41 and 47).

The Committee notes the Government’s indication that the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration continues to provide assistance to departing workers, to regulate the operations of private employment agencies and to maintain a list of suspended or banned employment agencies. The Government maintains 31 posts in 26 countries of the Overseas Workers Administration, including 25 welfare officers, to meet the needs of migrant Filipino workers. The Government further indicates that it has undertaken awareness and public information campaigns, using a wide range of mediums, including seminars on illegal recruitment, campaigns targeted for source areas, symposiums as well as radio and television advertisements. The Committee also notes the information in the report of the Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons, especially women and children, of 19 April 2013, that the high demand for female domestic workers from the Philippines and the large number of Filipinos seeking overseas employment in this sector has led to trafficking for domestic servitude being one of the most prevalent forms of cross-border trafficking. The vast majority of women and children are clandestinely “recruited” by illegal agents to work as domestic workers, mostly in the Middle East, where victims are locked in their employers’ homes, exploited and physically and/or sexually abused (A/HRC/23/48/Add.3, paragraph 9). The Committee therefore urges the Government to strengthen its efforts to ensure that migrant workers are fully protected from abusive practices and conditions that amount to the exaction of forced labour, including additional measures to address the exploitative practices of private recruitment agencies. The Committee requests the Government to continue to provide information on measures taken in this regard, including information on international cooperation efforts undertaken to support migrant workers in destination countries, and measures specifically tailored to the difficult circumstances faced by such workers to prevent and respond to cases of abuse.

The Committee is raising other points in a request addressed directly to the Government.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2012, published 102nd ILC session (2013)

Articles 1(1), 2(1) and 25 of the Convention. Trafficking in persons. 1. Law enforcement measures. The Committee previously noted that the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) was responsible for the implementation of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act (No. 9208 of 2003). It requested information on the proceedings instituted under Act No. 9208 and a copy of the latest report of the IACAT.

The Committee notes the information in a report from the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) entitled “Internationally recognized core labour standards in Philippines” of 20 and 22 March 2012 (ITUC report) that men, women and children are trafficked inside and outside the Philippines for the purpose of prostitution, involuntary domestic service and forced labour in industries, manufacturing, fisheries, agriculture and construction. This report indicates that while the Government has dedicated funds for the establishment of special anti-trafficking agents and provided training for judicial officials and law enforcers, a lack of understanding of trafficking and the anti-trafficking legislation among many judges, prosecutors, social service workers, and law enforcement officials remains an impediment to successful prosecutions.

The Committee welcomes the information in the report of the IACAT (submitted with the Government’s report) that between 2003 and 2011 there has been a total of 1,056 cases relating to trafficking in persons: 784 cases have been filed in court and 272 cases are pending with the Department of Justice. Of the cases filed in court, there have been 56 convictions, involving 62 traffickers. The Committee also notes the Government’s indication that the first conviction for trafficking for the purpose of forced labour was in February 2011, and the trafficker was sentenced to 20 years imprisonment and a fine of 1,000,000 pesos (PHP) (approximately US$23,620). Moreover, the IACAT report indicates that, with the support of the ILO, the Department of Justice is finalizing the manual on the prosecution and investigation of trafficking in persons for forced labour. The IACAT report further indicates that 20 prosecutors of the Department of Justice have been designated to handle cases of trafficking in persons, and that the Department issued two circulars in 2010 directing all prosecutors to prioritize trafficking in persons cases, in order to fast-track the resolution of cases and increase the rate of convictions. In addition, this report indicates that the IACAT has established eight anti-trafficking task forces, headed by a prosecutor of the Department of Justice. These task forces conduct surveillance and monitoring in coordination with local enforcement agencies, and take measures to intercept, arrest and investigate traffickers. The IACAT report indicates that these task forces have conducted four rescue operations in Manila and Pasay, intercepted and assisted 375 possible victims of trafficking at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, and rescued 268 women (and subsequently charged six persons) in Angeles City.

The Committee notes the information in the compilation report prepared by the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights for the Universal Periodic Review of 30 March 2012, that the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the UN Country Team in the Philippines and UNICEF each expressed concern at the large number of women and children who continued to be trafficked for the purposes of sexual exploitation and forced labour (A/HRC/WG.6/13/PHL/2, paragraph 25). Therefore, while taking due note of the measures implemented, the Committee requests the Government to pursue its efforts to combat trafficking in persons, and to ensure that thorough investigations and robust prosecutions are carried out against perpetrators of this offence. It requests the Government to continue to provide information on measures taken by the IACAT, and on the results achieved, particularly with regard to the number of investigations, prosecutions, convictions and the penalties applied.

2. Complicity of law enforcement officials with human traffickers. The Committee notes the indication in the ITUC report that the police are often complicit with traffickers and that some establishments where trafficking activities are taking place are not targeted by the police for controls and investigations. This report states that some police officers receive bribes to allow traffickers to escape during raids or to warn traffickers before a raid. The ITUC report states that, although some officers have been suspended, there have been no convictions of officers for complicity in trafficking activities.

In this regard, the Committee notes the information in the IACAT report that the Government has taken several measures to minimize trafficking-related corruption. For example, this report indicates that administrative cases were brought against 20 immigration officers at the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport, which led to two criminal cases for trafficking and corruption, and one criminal case against an agent of the National Bureau of Investigation. Additionally, the IACAT report indicates that an immigration officer at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport was dismissed due to complicity with traffickers and that two administrative cases were brought against employees at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. The Committee expresses concern at allegations of complicity of government officials with human traffickers and urges the Government to strengthen its efforts to combat this phenomenon. It requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that governmental officials complicit with human traffickers are prosecuted and that sufficiently effective and dissuasive criminal penalties are imposed in practice. It requests the Government to continue to provide information on measures taken in this regard, in its next report.

Articles 1(1) and 2(1). 1. Vulnerable situation of migrant workers with regard to the exaction of forced labour. The Committee notes the indication in the ITUC report that a great proportion of the 2 million Filipinos working abroad are female domestic workers in Asia and the Middle East, who frequently experience abuses including unpaid wages, food deprivation, forced confinement in the workplace, and physical and sexual abuse. The ITUC report states that traffickers often present themselves as recruiters and use fraudulent recruitment practices, hiring fees, use of violence, withholding of travel documents and salaries, psychological intimidation and other practices, to force their victims into work. Moreover, the ITUC report indicates that prosecutors have difficulty in distinguishing labour trafficking crimes from labour contract violations and that some judges erroneously claim that the use of force is a necessary element in processing a case as a trafficking case, when in reality the abuse of victims’ vulnerability is a more common problem.

In this regard, the Committee notes the information in the IACAT report that the Philippines Overseas Employment Administration conducts anti-illegal recruitment and trafficking in persons seminars throughout the country, as well as pre-departure orientation seminars for departing overseas Filipino workers. The Government indicated that 659 pre-departure seminars were conducted in 2009, and 841 such sessions in 2010. The IACAT report also indicates that advocacy campaigns have been implemented on the risks of migration and on the issue of trafficking.

The Committee notes that the Committee on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families (CMW), in its concluding observations of 22 May 2009, expressed concern that, despite the Government’s efforts to protect the rights of Filipino migrant workers abroad, abuse and exploitation continue, especially of women migrants. The CMW also expressed concern at claims that private recruitment agencies continue to overcharge fees for their services and act as intermediaries for foreign recruiters, which may increase the vulnerability of migrants. The CMW further expressed concern about the significant number of Filipino workers abroad who are victims of trafficking (CMW/C/PHL/CO/1, paragraph 31). The Committee therefore requests the Government to strengthen its efforts to protect vulnerable migrant workers from becoming victims of forced labour, including measures to address the exploitative practices of private recruitment agencies. The Committee requests the Government to continue to provide information on the measures taken to prevent the exploitation of migrant workers in situations analogous to forced labour, as well as on the results achieved. It further requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken to strengthen the capacity of law enforcement bodies and to provide relevant training to prosecutors and judges in this regard.

2. Freedom of career members of the armed forces to leave the service. The Committee previously requested information on the provisions applicable to career members of the regular forces regarding their right to leave the service, at their own request.

The Committee notes the Government’s statement that Presidential Decree No. 1638, as amended by Presidential Decree No. 1650, provides for a system of retirement for military personnel of the armed forces of the Philippines. The Committee notes that section 16 of Presidential Decree No. 1638 states that an officer may resign his commission and shall be separated from the service upon acceptance by the President of such resignation. The Committee therefore observes that, pursuant to section 16 of this Decree, the resignation of officers may be rejected. In this regard, the Committee recalls that career military servicemen who have voluntarily entered into an engagement should have the right to leave the service in peacetime within a reasonable period, either at specified intervals, or with previous notice. The Committee expresses the hope that measures will be taken to ensure that career members of the armed forces will enjoy fully the right to leave their service in peacetime at their own request, within a reasonable period, either at specified intervals, or with previous notice, in conformity with the Convention. The Committee requests the Government to provide available information on the application in practice of section 16 of Presidential Decree No. 1638, particularly the number of applications to resign that have been accepted or refused and information on the grounds for refusal.

Article 2(2)(a). Compulsory military service laws. The Committee previously noted the Government’s indication that the Philippines does not have compulsory military service. However, the Committee noted that, pursuant to sections 3 and 51 of the National Defence Act, military service is compulsory for all citizens of the Philippines. The Committee also noted that, under sections 3 and 7 of Republic Act No. 7077 (the Act providing for the organization, administration, training, maintenance and utilization of the citizen armed force of the armed forces of the Philippines), the mission of the citizen armed force includes assisting in socio-economic development, in addition to safeguarding the security of the State. Under section 33 of Act No. 7077, male citizens between 18 and 35 years of age shall be called to training and active service for a period of up to 24 months, divided into a training period of not more than six months and an active service period of not more than 18 months. Failure of reservists to respond to the call to compulsory training or service shall be punishable by imprisonment for a term of not more than 12 months (section 68).

The Committee notes the Government’s statement that the Philippine Constitution of 1987 supersedes sections 3 and 51 of the National Defense Act. In this regard, the Committee notes that article 2, section 4, of the Constitution states that all citizens may be required, under conditions provided by law, to render personal, military or civil service. The Committee therefore observes that Philippine legislation permits compulsory recruitment. Moreover, the Committee notes the Government’s indication that the socio-economic development projects of the armed forces of the Philippines include poverty reduction and infrastructure projects, including the construction of school buildings, health centres, roads, multi-purpose buildings, bridges, electrification and water systems.

In this regard, the Committee reminds the Government that under Article 2(2)(a) of the Convention, work or service exacted in virtue of compulsory military service laws may be excluded from the scope of the Convention only if performed for purely military ends. The Committee therefore requests the Government to take the necessary measures to ensure that services exacted through compulsory recruitment are used for purely military ends, in law and practice. It requests the Government to provide information on measures taken in this regard to ensure conformity with the Convention.

Article 2(2)(c). Prison labour. The Committee previously noted that, under section 1727 of the revised Administrative Code, convicted prisoners may be compelled to work in and about prisons. The Committee requested the Government to provide a copy of the Bureau of Corrections manual (Chapter 2 “Prison labour”, sections 1–9).

The Committee notes that Chapter 2, section 2, of the Bureau of Corrections manual states that a convicted able-bodied inmate may be required to work at least eight hours a day (except on Sundays and holidays), in and about the prison, public buildings, grounds, roads and other public works of the national Government. The Committee also notes that section 9 of Chapter 2 states that work programmes shall be conducted in prisons to promote good work habits and self-esteem among work inmates, and not as a means to exploit cheap prison labour or as a punishment. The Committee further notes the Government statement that the Bureau of Corrections is conducting continuous and close monitoring of inmates to ensure that their rights and welfare are protected and that convicted prisoners are not hired to, or placed at, the disposal of private individuals, companies or associations. In this regard, the Committee observes that prison work permitted by Chapter 2, section 2, of the Bureau of Corrections manual appears to be carried out within the prison or under public supervision for governmental projects.

Article 25. Penalties for the exaction of forced or compulsory labour. The Committee previously noted that the Penal Code provisions prohibiting slavery (section 272), services rendered under compulsion in payment of debts (section 274) and grave coercion (which includes, inter alia, compelling a person by means of violence or intimidation to do something against his/her will) (section 286) provide for penalties of imprisonment and fines. It requested information on proceedings instituted in this regard, and copies of relevant court decisions indicating the penalties imposed.

The Committee notes the Supreme Court decision of December 2009 provided with the Government’s report, concerning grave coercion, but observes that this case relates to forcible eviction from a leased premise, and not forced or compulsory labour. The Committee requests the Government to provide information, in its future reports, on any investigations, prosecutions, convictions and penalties applied related to sections 272, 274 and 286 of the Penal Code.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2010, published 100th ILC session (2011)

Articles 1(1), 2(1) and 25 of the Convention. Trafficking in persons. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government on the activities of the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) responsible for the implementation of Act No. 9208 of 2003. It notes, in particular, that the IACAT undertakes different projects geared towards the elimination of trafficking in persons in the Philippines, prevention of trafficking, protection and rehabilitation of victims and punishment of perpetrators. The Committee also notes the Government’s indication that, according to the report of the IACAT, 11 convictions on the violation of Act No. 9208 were registered as of November 2008. The Committee would appreciate it if the Government would continue to provide, in its future reports, information on the proceedings which have been instituted under Act No. 9208, supplying sample copies of the relevant court decisions and indicating the penalties imposed. Please also communicate a copy of the latest report of the IACAT.

Articles 1(1) and 2(1). Freedom of career members of the armed forces to leave their service. The Committee previously requested the Government to indicate provisions applicable to military officers and other career members of the armed forces as regards their right to leave the service, in time of peace, at their own request, either at certain reasonable intervals or by means of notice of reasonable length. The Committee notes the provisions of Executive Order No. 79 providing guidelines on the tour of active duty of reserve officers and Republic Act No. 2334 providing for the rotation of reserve officers, communicated by the Government. The Committee requests the Government to indicate provisions applicable to officers of the regular force, as well as to other career members of the regular force, as regards their right to leave the service, in time of peace, at their own request, e.g. by means of notice of reasonable length.

Article 2(2)(a). Compulsory military service laws. The Committee previously noted the Government’s indication in the report that the Philippines does not have compulsory military service. It also noted the Government’s indications concerning compulsory military training practised under the high school or the college curriculum. The Committee notes, however, that under sections 3 and 51 of Commonwealth Act No. 1 (the National Defense Act), military service is compulsory for all the citizens of the Philippines. The Committee requests the Government to clarify this issue, indicating, in particular, whether sections 3 and 51 of the National Defense Act are still in force and, if not, to supply a copy of the repealing text.

The Committee notes that, under sections 3 and 7 of Republic Act No. 7077 (the Act providing for the organization, administration, training, maintenance and utilization of the citizen armed force of the armed forces of the Philippines), the mission of the citizen armed force is not only to participate in safeguarding the security of the State in the event of war, or to assist in relief and rescue during disaster or calamities, but also “to assist in socio-economic development”. Under section 33 of the Act, male citizens between 18 and 35 years of age shall be called to training and active service for a period of up to 24 months, divided into a training period of not more than six months and an active service period of not more than 18 months. Failure of reservists to respond to the call to compulsory training or service shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term of not more than 12 months (section 68).

Recalling that, under Article 2(2)(a) of the Convention, work or service exacted in virtue of compulsory military service laws may be excluded from the scope of the Convention only if performed for purely military ends, the Committee requests the Government to describe, in its next report, the work which may be required of the citizen armed force “to assist in socio-economic development” and to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to ensure conformity with the Convention on this point. Please also provide a copy of the rules and regulations concerning the participation of the civil and military auxiliary services in socio-economic development projects, to which reference is made in section 63 of Republic Act No. 7077 referred to above.

Article 2(2)(c). Prison labour. The Committee notes the Government’s indications concerning the work of convicted prisoners. It requests the Government to communicate, with its next report, a copy of the Bureau of Corrections’ operating manual (Chapter 2 “Prison Labour”, sections 1–9) referred to in the Government’s report. Please also indicate whether guarantees are provided to ensure that convicted prisoners are not hired to, or placed at, the disposal of private individuals, companies and associations.

Article 25. Penalties for the illegal exaction of forced or compulsory labour. The Committee previously noted the Penal Code provisions punishing with penalties of imprisonment and fines such offences as slavery (section 272), services rendered under compulsion in payment of debts (section 274) and grave coercion (which includes, inter alia, compelling a person by means of violence or intimidation to do something against his/her will) (section 286). The Committee again requests the Government to provide information on the proceedings which have been instituted under the above penal provisions, supplying sample copies of the relevant court decisions and indicating the penalties imposed.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2008, published 98th ILC session (2009)

The Committee notes with interest the information provided by the Government in its first report on the application of the Convention. It requests the Government to provide, in its next report, additional information on the following points.

Communication of texts. The Committee requests the Government to supply, with its next report, a copy of legislation concerning compulsory military service, as well as copies of laws and regulations governing the execution of penal sentences.

Articles 1(1) and 2(1) of the Convention. 1. Trafficking in persons. The Committee has noted Act No. 9208 of 2003 to institute policies to eliminate trafficking in persons, especially women and children, establishing the necessary institutional mechanisms for the protection and support of trafficked persons and providing penalties for its violations. Please provide information on the application of this Act in practice, such as the information on the prevention and protection measures, including copies of reports, studies and inquiries, as well as available statistics.

2. Freedom of career members of the armed forces to leave their service. Please indicate any provisions applicable to military officers and other career members of the armed forces, as regards their right to leave the service, in time of peace, at their own request, either at certain reasonable intervals or by means of notice of reasonable length.

Article 2(2)(a). Use of services exacted under compulsory military service laws. Please indicate what guarantees are provided to ensure that services exacted under compulsory military service laws are used for purely military ends.

Article 2(2)(c). Prison labour. The Committee has noted that, under section 1727 of the revised Administrative Code, convicted prisoners may be compelled to work in and about prisons. Please supply copies of provisions governing the work of persons serving a sentence of imprisonment. Please indicate whether such work shall be in all cases performed in enterprises belonging to the executive penal system or in other state-owned enterprises, and what guarantees are provided to ensure that convicted prisoners are not hired to or placed at the disposal of private individuals, companies and associations.

Article 25. Penalties for the illegal exaction of forced or compulsory labour. Punishment of offences related to trafficking in persons. The Committee notes the Penal Code provisions punishing with penalties of imprisonment and fines such offences as slavery (section 272), services rendered under compulsion in payment of debts (section 274) and grave coercion (which includes, inter alia, compelling a person by means of violence or intimidation to do something against his/her will) (section 286). The Committee also notes the provisions of sections 4–6 and 10 of Anti-Trafficking Act No. 9208 referred to above, which punish with heavy penalties of imprisonment various offences related to trafficking in persons. The Committee would appreciate it if the Government would provide information on the proceedings which have been instituted under the above penal provisions, supplying sample copies of the relevant court decisions and indicating the penalties imposed.