DMW VOWS LEGAL AID FOR 3 FILIPINO SEAFARERS DETAINED IN ALGERIA

THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has committed full support to three Filipino seafarers detained in Algeria, as it continues to coordinate with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to strengthen their legal defense.

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac said Thursday that the agency remains in close contact with the families and is providing assistance as the case moves forward.

The three were among eight Filipino crew members arrested on July 28, 2023, after Algerian authorities discovered about 35.8 kilograms of cocaine on board the commercial vessel CV Harris while docked at the port of Algiers.

Five of the eight have since been released, while three remain in detention.

The DMW, in coordination with the DFA through the Philippine Embassy in Tripoli, has conducted jail visits to check on their condition and ensure their welfare.

“We remain in touch with the families and have been supporting them throughout the past three years as the case continues,” Cacdac said.

He added that the government is carefully reviewing the seafarers’ legal options, particularly any plea that could affect their appeal.

“We are working closely with the DFA to assess the merits of their plea and its potential impact on the appeal. Based on this, we will make the appropriate recommendation to the President,” he said.