The Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong posted in their Facebook account an advisory for all Filipinos in the said country to 'carefully select employment agencies' and 'beware of employment traps'.

The warning was released after the advice from Hong Kong's Labor Department regarding the use of service from employment agencies.

Hong Kong's Labor Department reminded to approach placement service of employment agencies they have given valid license by checking through their list at http://www.labour.gov.hk/eng/public/eaee/ea_list.pdf  or by calling 2852-3535 during office hours for inquires.

HKLD also stated hints for Filipinos on how to avoid such employment traps.

• Look for a valid license displayed as it is required by Hong Kong law.

• Do not make payments if the employment agency looks suspicious, or interview is conducted outside the place of business of the agency.

• Check if the job openings offered by the employment agency is legitimate.  Consultation with the relevant Consulate General of the destination country can be made if necessary for the visa requirements.

• Ask for an official receipt for any payment made to the employment agency.

• Deposit directly at the employment agency's bank account for payment record.

• Do not deposit money to personal account or pay by cash to staff of the employment agency, especially if they reject giving you a receipt.

• Do not sign documents that you can't understand or you do not agree with.

The Philippine Consulate General mentioned these laws of Hong Kong to further guide the Filipinos.

• Employmnet agencies in Hong Kong cannot charge more than 10% of the first month's salary as commission.

• It is illegal for the employment agency to receive any reward or payment except for the prescribed commission.

• Do not pay the employment agency with borrowed money from loan company, even if they told you to.

Filipinos can report to the Labour Department's 24-hour hotline if they suspect any employment agency operating without a valid license, if they are overcharged or if they are requested to make loans by the employment agency itself.  Labour Department's 24-hour hotline is 2-71-71-771.

Under the laws of Hong Kong, the prosecution has to be made within the lawful bar time of six months, so immediate reporting of cases to authorities should be made to avoid any delays.