Thirty-two Filipino seafarers have been rescued by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) from an abusive employer in Fiji, following months of mistreatment and labor violations. The DMW reported that the seafarers faced issues such as contract substitution, delayed wages, and both verbal and physical abuse. Initially promised a monthly salary of ₱60,000, they often received only ₱20,000, with payments frequently delayed.
Labor Attaché Antonio Mutuc Jr. played a key role in facilitating their return to the Philippines. The DMW has launched an investigation into the employer and the recruitment agency involved, signaling its readiness to impose disciplinary actions to ensure justice for the affected workers.
Upon their arrival in the Philippines, each seafarer received ₱50,000 in financial assistance from the AKSYON Fund, along with psychosocial support and reintegration services aimed at helping them rebuild their lives.
The DMW also urged Filipinos seeking employment abroad to thoroughly verify the legitimacy of recruitment agencies and ensure compliance with government regulations to avoid exploitation.
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