The Archdiocese of Zamboanga has joined hands with a non-government organization and a private company in the campaign against human trafficking in Region IX.

 

The archdiocese launched on Thursday the Stop Trafficking and Exploitation of People though Unlimited Potential (STEP-UP) Project, an ongoing program of the Visayan  Forum Foundation Incorporated with support from Microsoft Unlimited Potential.

 

Under the program, trafficked women and children, as well as potential victims of  trafficking aged 15 years and above, may avail of two-month computer lessons for free.

 

Archbishop Romulo Valles said the program is intended to uplift the spirit and dignity of the victims after their tragic experience. The modules prepared will also equip the trafficked women and children with substantial knowledge on the basic use of the  computer. This will enable them to land a better-paying and dignified job. 

 

Anti-human trafficking advocates have noted that most of the trafficked victims pass through Zamboanga City because of its proximity to Malaysia. The so-called Southern Backdoor provides an easier and faster way for human traffickers to transport their victims to  neighboring countries.

 

In most cases, some of these trafficked women and children are among the Filipino  deportees who arrive in Zamboanga City twice a week.

 

Valles said values will also be incorporated in the modules to enlighten students on how to cope with the trials of life.