The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Saturday welcomed the release of 78 Filipinos who were previously detained in Myanmar for immigration-related offenses.

In a statement, the DFA said the Filipinos had been trafficked to work in scam centers and were serving sentences for illegal entry and residency. Their release, according to the agency, was made possible through what it described as a “compassionate and humanitarian gesture” by Myanmar authorities during the celebration of Thingyan, the country’s New Year festival.

The DFA expressed appreciation to Myanmar for the move, noting that it reflects the goodwill between the two nations.

The Philippine Embassy in Yangon is now facilitating the safe and orderly return of the affected individuals to the Philippines, in coordination with local authorities.

Meanwhile, the DFA reiterated its commitment to protecting Filipinos abroad, emphasizing continued collaboration with the Department of Migrant Workers and other law enforcement agencies.

The agency also vowed to pursue legal action against illegal recruiters responsible for trafficking Filipinos into illicit employment overseas.