Filipino Seafarers Acquitted of Drug Smuggling in Turkey, Set to Return Home

Six Filipino seafarers have been acquitted of drug smuggling charges in Turkey and are set to return to the Philippines by the end of the month, according to Kabayan party-list Rep. Ron Salo. The seafarers were arrested in October 2023 aboard the Phoenician M in Zonguldak but were cleared of all charges by the Court of Erigle on 16 September 2024. Salo praised the efforts of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Philippine Embassy in Turkey for their crucial roles in securing the seafarers’ acquittal.

The Philippine Embassy in Turkey worked closely with the legal team of Phoenician M and hired private lawyers to defend the Filipino seafarers. Ambassador Henry Bensurto and the Embassy team attended all court hearings in Erigle, providing support to the seafarers who were held at Sincan Penitentiary. They also kept the families of the seafarers in the Philippines informed throughout the legal process, updating them on the case’s progress and the well-being of their loved ones.

After enduring a challenging and emotional ordeal, the seafarers will finally be reunited with their families. They expressed happiness at their impending return and praised their strength and resilience throughout the ordeal. They also acknowledged the unwavering support of the seafarers’ families, recognizing the difficulties they faced while awaiting the resolution of the case.

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