The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has shut down three branches of a visa consulting firm for allegedly engaging in illegal recruitment activities.
Padlocked were the branches of GST International Education and Visa Consultancy in Polomolok, South Cotabato; Iloilo City and San Fernando, Pampanga, which were found offering jobs abroad instead of visa consultancy services.
The DMW said the company and its branches have no license to recruit workers for overseas jobs.
Initial investigation showed that the GST offers career matching services and charges applicants from P30,000 to P50,000.
Applicants were reportedly promised to work as pipefitter, factory worker and caregiver in Australia, New Zealand and Canada with corresponding salaries ranging from P47,000 to P66,000.
The DMW said it would file charges against GST owner Nicole Salazar and her employees involved in illegal recruitment.
‘The GST, along with its officials and personnel will be included in the list of people and establishments with derogatory records. This means they cannot participate in the government’s overseas recruitment program,’ the agency said as it urged victims to cooperate with proper authorities for the filing of a case against the company.
Victims may contact the DMW office or send a message so they could be provided free legal assistance, the DMW said.