Zamboanga City – In a significant step toward eradicating human trafficking at the local level, the City Government of Zamboanga has enacted Ordinance No. 718, amending the city’s existing anti-trafficking policy to better align with national laws and strengthen protection mechanisms for victims.
Mayor John Dalipe signed the ordinance on Friday, May 16, in a ceremony held at City Hall. The event was witnessed by key city officials, including Councilors Al-Jihan Edding and Jerome Santos, Executive Judge Peter Eisma, Judge Sharon Mae Sales-Belisario, City Social Welfare and Development Officer Ma. Socorro Rojas, and other local government personnel.
The newly enacted Ordinance No. 718 updates and enhances City Ordinance No. 350, ensuring it conforms with Republic Act No. 9208, also known as the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003, and its amendments under RA 10364 (2012) and RA 11862 (2022), known as the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Acts.
“This ordinance represents our collective commitment to a more proactive and comprehensive approach in addressing human trafficking in our communities,” said Mayor Dalipe. “By aligning with national laws and investing in local mechanisms, we are reinforcing our resolve to protect the most vulnerable.”
The revised ordinance mandates the allocation of city resources to strengthen the pillars of prevention, protection, and prosecution. It also reinforces the city’s capacity to run victim-centered programs, including psychosocial support, legal aid, and reintegration services for trafficking survivors.
Officials emphasized that the legislation is not just a legal measure but a community-driven framework that highlights collaboration among government agencies, law enforcement, civil society, and grassroots sectors.
The move has been welcomed by advocates and stakeholders as a timely and necessary intervention to address trafficking incidents, especially among vulnerable populations such as women, children, and migrant workers.
With Ordinance No. 718 now in place, Zamboanga City reaffirms its position as a vigilant and active partner in the nationwide campaign to end human trafficking.