Pinoy Trafficking Victims Lead Freedom Walk
Steve Angeles, ABS-CBN North America News Bureau
Posted at 01/29/16 3:27 PM
LOS ANGELES, California – Former human trafficking victims, including some Filipinos, led the 5th Annual LA Freedom Walk through the streets of Los Angeles to raise awareness and to call for a stop to the practice.
“Human trafficking still exists until today,” Nena Ruiz of the Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking.
Angela Guanzon from the same organization added, “The more we talk, the more people learn and know about human trafficking. It’s everywhere. Kahit saan and hindi mo ini-expect. Akala mo lang ang tao ok, pero hindi.”
It’s a special moment for the hundreds who marched especially for Filipinas, all victims of human trafficking, who led the pack. They believe their stories can help save others.
“Parang ang mga tao na biktima nagtatago kasi natatakot but kung may unity kayo, lahat mag-cooperate may lakas silang mag sumbong,” said Lorena Barrios.
Advocates and law enforcement agencies say that human trafficking often goes undetected inside homes and businesses.
“Kailangan lang natin maging aware and vigilant,” Guanzon said.