Chevron’s Generous Contribution to Flood Relief

Chevron Thailand Exploration and Production, Ltd. has made a significant donation of 666,806 baht to the Thai Red Cross Society to support flood relief efforts in southern Thailand. The donation was presented by Pornsuree Konanta, Vice President of Corporate Affairs, and received by Janprapa Vichitcholchai, Deputy Director of the Fund-Raising Bureau.

Impact of Severe Flooding in Southern Thailand

The southern region of Thailand has been severely affected by heavy rainfall since November 2024, particularly in provinces such as Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Satun, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. This contribution aims to aid communities that have experienced significant hardships due to flooding.

Part of the “Chevron Humankind” Initiative

This donation is part of Chevron’s decade-long initiative known as “Chevron Humankind,” which encourages employees to engage in charitable activities. Under this program, Chevron matches employee donations twofold. This year, the company matched employee contributions to the Thai Red Cross Society, resulting in a total donation of 666,806 baht dedicated to assisting flood-affected areas.

Previous Contributions to Support Local Communities

In December 2024, Chevron also donated 100,000 baht to the Nakhon Si Thammarat Journalists Association. This funding supports the Pracha Ruamchai Foundation’s mission to provide essential food and drinking water to flood victims in Nakhon Si Thammarat, ensuring that urgent assistance reaches those in need.

Commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility

Chevron’s proactive approach highlights its commitment to corporate social responsibility and community support during times of crisis. By providing financial assistance and encouraging employee involvement in charitable efforts, Chevron demonstrates its dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by natural disasters in southern Thailand.

Job Seekers Deceived by Fraudulent Brokers

Approximately 250 individuals were left stranded at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Saturday after being promised employment opportunities in Australia and Israel by job brokers. The disappointed job seekers reported that they collectively paid around 12 million baht in broker fees.

Formal Complaints Filed with Authorities

On Monday, fifty of the affected individuals took action by filing formal complaints with the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB). One victim, Narongchai, 42, disclosed that they had paid between 60,000 to 120,000 baht each to a woman known as “Ms. Aoy” to secure various job placements in Australia.

Promises of Work in Israel

Other victims, who also filed complaints with the airport police on Saturday, claimed they were promised jobs in Israel. Ms. Aoy appeared at the airport and stated that she had transferred the victims’ funds to another individual named “Ms. Fa,” who allegedly worked at a foreign embassy and claimed to facilitate overseas job placements for Thais.

Ms. Aoy’s Claims and Victims’ Frustration

Ms. Aoy assured the victims that she would present the visas she arranged for them to the Crime Suppression Division on Monday to prove her innocence. However, as of Monday morning, the victims were unable to contact her, exacerbating their frustration and concern.

Government Response and Warnings

Government deputy spokesman Karom Ponpornklang announced that the Department of Employment and the Ministry of Labour were assisting victims in filing their complaints with the CIB’s Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division. The Ministry has also instructed the airport labor checkpoint to closely monitor job brokers for illegal activities.Karom emphasized that Thai citizens seeking work abroad must do so legally and should thoroughly vet brokers before handing over any money. He reiterated that overseas job agencies must be approved by the Department of Labour to ensure legitimacy.

A Call for Vigilance Among Job Seekers

This incident serves as a stark reminder for job seekers about the importance of verifying the legitimacy of job offers and brokers. As authorities investigate this scam, it highlights the need for greater awareness and regulation to protect individuals from fraudulent schemes targeting those seeking better employment opportunities abroad.