(a) whether the Indian Mission in Manila has approached the Government to take measures to dissuade Indians from migrating to the Island Nation for work following increasing number of unnatural killings and kidnappings of Indians in Philippines recently:
(b) if so, the details in this regard; and
(c) the remedial measures taken/proposed to be taken in this regard ?
THE MINISTER OF OVERSEAS INDIAN AFFAIRS (SHRI VAYALAR RAVI)
(a) to c): The Indian Mission in Manila requested to discourage Indians particularly from rural areas of Punjab from migrating to Philippines as they tended to indulge in money-lending and other activities which was affecting the image of India in that country. The matter was taken up with Government of Punjab who have carried out awareness campaign in this regard on the request of Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs. Protectors of Emigrants have been asked to be extra vigilant in granting emigration clearance to persons going to Philippines. It has also been made mandatory to get the sponsorship declaration attested by the Embassy of India in Philippines before granting Emigration Check Required Suspension (ECRS) in case of travel on visit visa. These measures apply to ECR passport holders.