08 September 2023, CANBERRA – Philippines Ambassador to Australia Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega met the representatives of Australian Catholic Religious Against Trafficking in Humans (ACRATH) on 04 September 2023 at the Embassy to discuss possible areas of cooperation including extending assistance to Filipinos in distress in Australia particularly victims of trafficking in persons.

ACRATH was established in 2005 and has presence across five states and the Australian Capital Territory. The organization provides services on a range of areas such as accompanying and advocating for people who have been trafficked or exploited in Australia; supporting and advocating for those in exploited and forced labor; advocating for systemic change; educating parishes, schools, community groups and the health sector about slavery in supply chains; and was a key participant in the successful campaign for the establishment of the Commonwealth Modern Slavery Act (MSA), as well as several other pieces of legislation.

The ACRATH representatives included Ms. Cindy Bohan (Community Development), Sr. Taabeia Ibouri (Kiribati worker), Ms. Noelene Simmons (NSW Coordinator), Ms Angela Hart (SA Regional Coordinator), and Ms. Ange Duthie (ACRATH Communications).

Ambassador De La Vega discussed and shared the best practices of the Philippines on migration and development policy, including programs related to trafficking in persons. The Ambassador said, “With a significant population overseas and increased mobility, the Philippines has been leading international efforts to ensure the protection of Filipinos abroad. Working with organizations such as ACRATH is important in promoting advocacy and providing assistance to trafficking victims.” -END