HOUSE Deputy Majority Leader Erwin Tulfo and his colleagues from the ACT-CIS partylist are pushing for harsher penalties and imprisonment for individuals who deceive and victimize Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families.
This coming Monday (January 13), at the resumption of Congress, Rep. Tulfo and his colleagues will file the House Bill titled: “An Act Penalizing Fraud Against Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and Providing Penalties for Violation Thereof.”
Joining Tulfo in filing the proposed legislation are ACT-CIS Representatives Edvic Yap and Jocelyn Tulfo, Benguet Representative Eric Yap, and Quezon City 2nd District Representative Ralph Wendel Tulfo.
“Kadalasan ang natatanggap naming sumbong ay mga OFW na binibiktima ng mga scammer, lalo na tuwing uuwi sila sa Pilipinas,” said Cong. Tulfo.
“Sa halip na mapunta sa kanilang pamilya o iipunin ang perang pinaghirapan sa ibang bansa, ay sa mga manloloko lamang napunta,” he added.
According to Tulfo, OFWs are often scammed through business investments such as networking or lending schemes, educational plans for their children, and housing programs.
“Kailangan na itong wakasan; kailangan natin ng batas na magpo-protekta sa mga OFW,” said Tulfo in his statement.
“This Act, known as the ‘Overseas Filipino Worker Protection Against Fraud Act of 2025,’ recognizes the invaluable contributions of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to national development and aims to protect their hard-earned income from exploitation and abuse,” as stated in the proposed bill.
Those proven guilty of defrauding OFWs will face a minimum fine of ₱10 million and imprisonment of 20 years to life imprisonment.
The Act enforces significant penalties for offenders, including hefty fines and imprisonment, while emphasizing restitution so that victims of fraud can recover their financial losses,” the bill states.
“This comprehensive approach highlights the government’s dedication to safeguarding the welfare of OFWs and securing their financial stability, fostering an environment where they can contribute to national development without fear of exploitation. This Act represents a vital step toward empowering OFWs and protecting their hard-earned income,” it further emphasizes.
Tulfo added, “Ilang taon nilang inipon ang pera at nagtiis na mawalay sa pamilya para kumita, tapos itatakbo lang ng mga scammer… this must stop!”
metrosundaily
