Human trafficking is a reprehensible crime that preys on the most vulnerable and thrives during uncertain times. The Covid-19 pandemic exacerbated the plight of many vulnerable Filipinos as traffickers see this as an opportune time to exploit their desperation.

The community quarantine, which necessitated the closure of major economic sectors, has resulted in loss of livelihood of Filipinos—with many more sinking deeper to extreme poverty as businesses continue to close and employees are forced to be laid-off. The desperate situation, coupled with confinement at home, has led to the increase in cybersex trafficking and online sexual exploitation of children (OSEC).

The United Nation Children’s Fund (Unicef) dubs the Philippines ‘global epicentre of the live-stream sexual abuse trade,’ with many victims being children.

Many migrant Filipinos workers are also prone to exploitation and trafficking, especially with the current volatile global economy and the halting of international travel. Several are trapped with their traffickers and/or abusers, particularly those in domestic servitude or sex slavery, which disproportionately affect women and girls.

The current challenges highlights the importance of trafficking prevention and response in times of outbreak and crisis. Frontline workers, in this sense, play an essential role in addressing this problem amid the overwhelming challenges that beset social and public services.

This year’s observance of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons today, 30 July 2020, focuses on the first responders—the social workers, labour inspectors, law enforcement officers and prosecutors, health workers, and NGO staff. Despite the restrictions and the risks, they exert their best effort to find the victims; provide them with essential support; and assist them in the often arduous and difficult process of accessing justice, healing, and rebuilding their lives.

Addressing human trafficking during the quarantine period entails sufficient capacity and support for the first responders as the lifeline of the victims. We urge the government to equally channel resources for the rescue and protection of victims by equipping and supporting the first responders. As the maneuvering of traffickers become more insidious, raising public awareness and encouraging vigilance are also essential in tackling the problem.

Human trafficking reflects a failure to protect the most vulnerable. The marginalized sector needs the government and the society’s utmost protection and assistance during normal times and even more so in this period of health and economic crisis.

On this World Day against Trafficking in Persons, let us renew our commitment and step up our response to ensure justice, recovery, and rebuilding of the lives and dignity of all victims of human trafficking.