Labor official faces alleged 'sex-for-flight' victims

MANILA, Philippines - The Senate investigation on the alleged sex-for-flight scheme resumed Thursday with three supposed victims facing a labor official in Riyadh whom they have accused of sexual harassment.

One of the victims identified as "Michelle" said assistant labor attache in Riyadh Antonio Villafuerte attempted to rape and pimp her to an Egyptian national.

Michelle even removed her veil to make Villafuerte recognize her.

“Ngayon Mr. Villafuerte, naaalala mo po ba ako... 'yung ginawa nyo sa akin?" Michelle asked Villafuerte as she broke down.

She also accused Villafuerte of sending inappropriate text messages about her underwear when she asked for clothing from the labor attache.

When asked by Senator Jinggoy Estrada if he remembers Michelle, Villafuerte said yes but denied attempting to rape the distressed overseas worker.

Another alleged victim identified as "Angel" accused Villafuerte of asking lewd questions when she sought  the official's help.

"Hindi ko po inaasahan na itatanong niya po sa akin ay sobrang kabastusan," she said.

The Senate inquiry was conducted by the chamber's Blue Ribbon Committee to probe the alleged "sex-for-flight" scheme of some labor officials in the Middle East.

These officials allegedly demand sexual favors from distressed overseas workers in exchange for a ticket back to the Philippines.