PNP warns vs. recruiters luring Filipinos into foreign conflict zones
This photograph shows glow during Russian missile strikes on the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv on July 19, 2026, amid the Russian invasion in Ukraine. Sergei Supinsky, AFP/FileMANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has warned against recruiters allegedly luring Filipinos into conflict zones through promises of lucrative overseas jobs, following the interception of three individuals suspected of being recruited for military and border guard positions in Eastern Europe.
The three Filipinos, aged 21, 50 and 51, were intercepted at the Davao International Airport on Oct. 17 before their scheduled departure after authorities raised concerns over their intended employment abroad.
They later disclosed that they were supposed to work as military personnel and border guards in Eastern Europe, with a promised monthly salary of P200,000.
PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered police units to intensify intelligence operations and monitoring of suspected illegal recruiters, as well as coordinate with concerned government agencies to prevent more Filipinos from falling victim to deceptive recruitment schemes.
“No Filipino should be lured into a conflict zone by false promises of employment,” Nartatez said in a statement.
“Illegal recruiters prey on the hopes of our kababayans by disguising dangerous schemes as opportunities for a better future. We will strengthen our intelligence operations and coordination with partner agencies to expose these schemes and hold those responsible accountable,” he added.
The warning comes amid reports that at least three Filipinos have died in the armed conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
Nartatez said the PNP would not allow individuals or syndicates to exploit Filipinos seeking better opportunities abroad.
“No promise of a high-paying job should come at the expense of a Filipino’s safety, dignity, or future,” he said.