Clinton recognizes Philippines' effort against human trafficking

The Philippines is no longer included from the U.S. watch list of countries with problems as regards human trafficking.

Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda announced that the Aquino administration has expressed its gratitude regarding the recognition given by United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton for the country's progress to combat human trafficking.

In an interview, she said, "The Philippines probably export more people of their citizenry than nearly any other country in the world. They go all over the world to work in many different settings. And until the new administration of President Aquino, we didn't really have the level of commitment we were seeking. We do now, and we see a sea change of difference."

The former first lady also acknowledged the leadership of the Aquino administration.

"Look at what the Philippines have done in a change of administration," she added.

The 2011 Trafficking in Persons Report of the U.S. State Department, on their website, said that while the Philippines "still does not fully comply with minimum standards to eliminate trafficking, Manila is making significant efforts to do so."

In 2010 the Philippines was among the 68 countries under the "Tier 2 Watch List."

To be included in the "Tier 2 Watch List" means that country's government has not complied with at least the minimum standards of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act.

As a response, the Aquino's Official Gazette indicated that the Aquino administration "expresses its appreciation at these citations and emphasizes our continuing campaign against human traficking." — ARA