SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian has emphasized the importance of stricter travel permits for minors traveling abroad to prevent child trafficking.

He stated that implementing the Travel Clearance for Minors Traveling Abroad would streamline the issuance of travel permits and introduce tighter identity verification measures. This, he said, would help ensure the safety of children and prevent them from becoming victims of human trafficking.

Gatchalian stressed that combating child trafficking requires strong collaboration among various government agencies.

He called for increased coordination between the Bureau of Immigration and the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking to effectively monitor and prevent illegal activities involving minors.

“By verifying the identities of children, their parents, guardians, or travel companions, we strengthen efforts to protect them from harm,” he added.

The senator cited the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2022, which strengthens legal mechanisms against trafficking and other forms of exploitation, especially those involving children.

He underscored the need for constant vigilance in enforcing this law to protect minors from abuse.

“Kailangan lagi nating tiyakin ang kapakanan at kaligtasan ng mga kabataan upang hindi sila maging biktima ng anumang uri ng karahasan o pang-aabuso,” he stated.

Under the MTA system, parents or guardians must provide extensive documentation proving their relationship with the minor, along with other requirements to ensure their safety.