By Rachel Magday
BAMBANG, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines — Fifty business owners and operators in this town have pledged to help authorities detect and prevent human trafficking, protect women and children from exploitation, and keep their establishments safe for vulnerable sectors.
The commitment was made during an anti-trafficking orientation held recently at the Bambang Integrated Agri-Tourism and Learning Site in San Antonio South, as part of the observance of the 2026 National Anti-Trafficking in Persons Awareness Month.
Organized by the provincial government headed by Gov Jose V Gambito thru Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), the activity was conducted in partnership with the Provincial Committee on Anti-Trafficking and Violence Against Women and Children and the Bambang Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office.
The orientation sought to equip business owners and operators with the knowledge to recognize warning signs of trafficking, understand their legal responsibilities, and maintain establishments that are safe and child-friendly.
PSWDO Social Welfare Officer IV Jesusa Dyte discussed the various forms of human trafficking and the common indicators of exploitation. She warned participants that the employment of minors, sexual exploitation and other trafficking-related activities are punishable under Philippine law.
Dyte called on business owners to adopt a zero-tolerance policy against trafficking, install closed-circuit television cameras where appropriate, uphold the dignity and safety of women and children, and immediately report suspicious activities to authorities.
The participants later signed a commitment pledge, promising to comply with anti-trafficking laws, protect women and children, report suspected cases of trafficking and exploitation, and cooperate with law enforcement and social welfare agencies.
Police Chief Master Sergeant Angeliza Landicho of the Bambang Municipal Police Station also briefed the participants on laws governing the employment of minors and the responsibility of establishments to prevent children from being exposed to exploitation.
Amparo Gregorio of the Bambang Rural Health Unit informed participants that free Pap smear and Gram stain services are available every Wednesday, reinforcing the importance of accessible health services for women.
Elaiza Gail Pinaroc, meanwhile, urged government agencies and business owners to strengthen cooperation in making establishments and communities safer for women and children.
The activity underscored the role of the private sector in the fight against human trafficking, with business establishments positioned as critical partners in identifying and reporting possible cases of exploitation before victims suffer further harm
