The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has launched an investigation into the case of 18 Filipino seafarers who were reportedly dismissed from their cruise ship jobs in the United States, deported, and barred from returning to the country.
DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac confirmed the department is coordinating with the affected crew members to gather further information. “We will talk to the cruise ship workers who have been deported to gather more details,” he posted on social media.
The seafarers, who had valid working visas and had previously cleared all requirements to work in the US, were allegedly taken off the Carnival Sunshine cruise ship by US Customs and Border Protection. Reports said some of them were handcuffed and leg-cuffed, and their cell phones were confiscated while they were held in detention.
The department assured the public that appropriate support will be extended to the seafarers, emphasizing that their rights must be protected despite the abrupt termination and deportation.
Meanwhile, Cacdac also gave updates on the government’s efforts to assist Filipino crew members from the Greek vessel Eternity C, which capsized in the Red Sea following missile strikes by Houthi rebels. “We continue to account for the missing seafarers and will sustain the government’s support until they are reunited with their families,” he said.
Both the DMW and the Department of Foreign Affairs are actively coordinating to locate the missing Filipino sailors and ensure their families receive continued support.
