Eight Filipino Seafarers Freed from Malaysian Detention in Immigration Case

Eight Filipino seafarers who were detained in Malaysia for alleged immigration violations have been released, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). The crew was detained in Kota Tinggi, Johor, and were released on 18 April thanks to the efforts of Labor Attaché Jocelyn Ortega, DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac, and the Department of Foreign Affairs. The DMW-Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Malaysia worked with local authorities and the seafarers’ manning agency to ensure their safety and well-being during the investigation.

The seafarers’ manning agency has committed to continue paying their salaries and benefits, as confirmed by the DMW. The eight Filipinos, along with 12 Indian crew members, were detained on 11 April for allegedly disembarking at East Outside Port Limits Malaysia without passports or valid documents. Despite being close to Singapore, the area falls within Malaysian waters, making their operations unauthorized under local immigration laws. The DMW-MWO and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration provided legal and welfare assistance to the detained seafarers throughout the process.

Arrangements for the repatriation of the Filipino seafarers back to the Philippines are currently in progress. The DMW-MWO ensured that the seafarers received necessary support and assistance during their detention and release in Malaysia. The coordinated efforts of various agencies and officials have led to the successful resolution of this immigration issue, allowing the seafarers to return home soon.

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