Pasig, Philippines – The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has ordered the closure of ANECON Tourism Consultancy Services Inc., also known as ANECON Study Abroad, a Pasig City company accused of recruiting Filipinos for overseas jobs without a license. The Closure Order follows findings that the firm marketed foreign employment programs it had no authority to offer.
According to a DMW update, the case began when the Bureau of Immigration (BI) flagged a report and endorsed it to the Department of Justice–Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT), which later passed it to the DMW for action. The report noted that several Filipinos reached Europe using Schengen Type C visas stamped “seasonal worker,” after being promised study, internship, and job placements.
What the Investigation Found
A check through the DMW Verification System confirmed that ANECON held no license or authority to conduct overseas recruitment. Surveillance operations then revealed the company was actively advertising employment-linked programs, including:
- Study Abroad with Guaranteed Work
- Ausbildung
- Au Pair
- Direct Work Program for the United Kingdom and Germany
The firm reportedly used Facebook and other social media pages to reach hopeful applicants. Processing fees for these programs ranged from ₱200,000 to ₱400,000, depending on the package chosen.
Charges and Penalties Ahead
The DMW is pursuing full accountability against those behind the operation. Company officers and involved employees now face illegal recruitment charges.
Alongside the criminal case, the agency has moved to:
- Add the names of responsible individuals to the DMW List of Persons and Entities with Derogatory Record
- Recommend the cancellation of ANECON’s business permit with the Pasig City government
- Recommend the cancellation of its registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
These steps aim to stop the company from operating and to warn other Filipinos away from similar offers.
A Reminder for Aspiring OFWs
Promises of guaranteed jobs abroad tied to study or internship packages deserve a closer look, especially when hefty fees come attached. Verifying an agency’s license with the DMW before paying anything can spare you heartache and financial loss.
If you or someone you know may have dealt with ANECON, or if you hold information about the case, the DMW encourages you to reach out. You can contact the DMW Migrant Workers Protection Bureau through the DMW AIRTIP Facebook page for proper assistance and legal support.