OFWs urged to stay away from drug syndicates 

With the Indonesian government poised to execute by firing squad  OFW Mary Jane Veloso unless Indonesian President Jokowi Widodo heeds appeals to spare her life, Senate President Franklin M. Drilon has offered a piece of advice to OFWs: "Don't be fooled by the promises of drug traffickers."

Drilon pointed out that OFWs "should understand that they will face extreme difficulties if they are caught bringing illegal drugs to other countries. They represent our country abroad, they should not be involved in any illegal activities."

Drilon, a former Labor Secretary, said OFWs should realize that they are subject to the laws of other countries. "My message to OFWs is this: Do not  be fooled by the promises of drug syndicates." 

         

The Senate President said the government agencies concerned with OFWs, such as the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration should intensify efforts to educate those intending to leave for work abroad to comply with the laws of their host countries. 

          

"Our pre-departure orientation seminars (PDOS) should emphasize to the OFWs that they will have to face the consequences if they are involved in criminal activities, such as trafficking in illegal drugs," Drilon said. -end-