The wives of three Filipino seafarers imprisoned in Algeria on drug charges have appealed to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for assistance in securing their husbands’ release. The seafarers were part of a group arrested in July 2023 after 35.8 kilograms of alleged cocaine were discovered on their ship, the MV Harris. Initially sentenced to 20 years, five of the eight seamen were acquitted following a motion for reconsideration filed by their Philippine lawyers. However, the three husbands received 15-year sentences, which their agency, Eastern Mediterranean Manning Agency Inc. (EastMed), claims is unjust as they are victims of drug syndicates.
One wife emphasized the urgency of their situation, noting that the Algeria Supreme Court will decide their fate soon. She highlighted that the men have been incarcerated for nearly two years, with one suffering from diabetes, and pleaded for the President’s intervention to facilitate a government-to-government deal. The wives expressed their emotional turmoil, stating their children are growing up without their fathers and that the prolonged uncertainty has caused immense hardship for their families.
In a letter to the Philippine Embassy in Libya, the wives sought further assistance, acknowledging the complexities of international legal processes while stressing their families’ ongoing suffering and anxiety. They expressed deep concern for their husbands’ safety and mental well-being during this challenging time.
