Phl maintains tier 1 status on trafficking efforts

The report recognized specific efforts by the Philippines, including the rescue of more victims than in 2020.

The Philippines retained for seven consecutive years its Tier 1 ranking in the United States (US) 2022 Trafficking in Persons Report, which was released on 19 July 2022.

The Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) said the ranking means the government fully met the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking in persons under the US Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 by demonstrating serious and sustained efforts to address the problem during the covered period.

“We welcome the 2022 Trafficking in Persons Report and thank the US Department of State for recognizing the anti-trafficking efforts of the Philippine government,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said.

“This recognition encourages us to continue our engagement and cooperation with all stakeholders, including the US government, toward our common advocacy of eradicating human trafficking,” Remulla, who also serves as IACAT chairperson, added.

The report recognized specific efforts by the Philippines, including the rescue of more victims than in 2020, drafting standard operating procedures for the identification and monitoring of trafficking-related corruption cases, sentencing nearly all indicted traffickers to significant prison terms, and creating an executive-level Department of Migrant Workers.

The ranking affects the country’s international relations with the US, including its eligibility for economic and security assistance.

Among Southeast Asian countries, only the Philippines and Singapore are included in this year’s Tier 1 ranking.

The 2022 Trafficking in Persons Report may be accessed at