On Wednesday, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) assured a group of Filipino seafarers recently deported from the United States that they would receive support and that their issues would be raised with US officials. This assurance came after over 100 Filipino seafarers were reportedly expelled from the US, prompting representatives from the International Seafarers Action Center to meet with DFA Assistant Secretary Ezzedin Tago.
The deported seafarers requested that the DFA lodge a diplomatic protest against the US, citing allegations of discrimination and violations of their right to due process. In response, Tago confirmed that the DFA would collaborate with the Department of Migrant Workers and the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C., to investigate the situation and ensure the necessary assistance is provided.
The Philippine Embassy in Washington previously sought clarification from the US Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security regarding the reported entry denials faced by Filipino seafarers at US ports in recent months. However, both agencies stated that their actions were carried out in accordance with existing US laws and regulations.
Filipino seafarers represent a significant portion of the global shipping workforce, accounting for over 20 percent of the world’s 1.2 million sailors who operate various vessels, including oil tankers, cargo ships, and luxury liners.
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