TWO establishments, allegedly posing as language schools, were shut down by the Department of Migrant Workers Central Visayas (DMW 7) on Monday, Aug. 11, 2025, for reportedly engaging in illegal recruitment.
The DMW 7 claimed the Japanese Learning Center in Minglanilla and the Language Training Center in Cebu City were illegally referring students for jobs abroad.
The DMW first raided the Japanese Learning Center that taught Nihongo to eight students.
An investigation, however, revealed the center illegally recruited students.
The DMW 7 also closed down the Language Training Center on General Maxilom Ave. in Cebu City, saying the school was also involved in illegal recruitment.
According to the DMW 7, the Language Training Center had “partner agencies” that help students get jobs abroad after training.
Migrant Workers Protection Bureau Director Eric Dollete said “recruitment by referral” is a violation.
The owner of one of the centers, identified only as Mark, denied the accusations.
“We are a purely language school,” he said, claiming that they only refer students to agencies.
“We make sure they go to a licensed agency,” he said.
But Dollete said the DMW 7 has strong evidence against the two establishments.
He said the DMW 7 will file cases against the owners even if students do not file a complaint.
The DMW will also ask local government units to cancel the business permits of both establishments. / ANV