Philippines probes human trafficking allegation

The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has launched a probe into its employee charged with human trafficking in Ottawa, Canada, a senior official said Saturday. DFA Assistant Secretary Charles Jose said the DFA took "very seriously" allegations of misconduct of its employees. "The Department is conducting an inquiry into the matter and, through the Philippine Embassy in Ottawa, had extended its full cooperation to the extent defined by international law," he said. The Ottawa Police has announced the filing of human trafficking charges against Buenaflor Cruz, a staff member formerly assigned to the Philippine Embassy in Ottawa, and her husband. The couple allegedly exploited their Filipino nanny for financial and material benefit from July 2009 to December 2013 at their private home in Ottawa. Jose said Cruz has been reassigned to the Home Office as part of the DFA's normal rotation. But while the DFA was of the opinion that the police announcement may be a matter deemed of public interest regarding the day-to-day activities of the police service, it expressed concern "that such action may not be totally helpful to the inquiry at this time." The DFA expressed confidence in the legal process of Canada as it looks forward to continuing to work on addressing issues in a manner consistent "with our friendly bilateral relations."