The first batch of Filipino seafarers who were abandoned by their Greek employer and stranded for three months in a port in southeastern India arrived in the Philippines.
In a statement released by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), 15 of the 21 seafarers arrived in Manila on November 17.
The DFA also worked with the local recruitment agencies of the seafarers to claim the unpaid salary of the workers. Legal assistance will also be given to the workers.
“The Embassy in New Delhi and the Consulate General in Chennai worked closely with Indian port authorities and the Admiral Shipping Agency, the local agent in India, for the resolution of the case,” the DFA said.
Meanwhile, the remaining six workers will be repatriated to the Philippines as soon as possible, as per Ambassador to India Ma. Teresita Daza.
Earlier, the crew were stuck onboard their vessel, MV Evangelia M, a Liberian-flagged bulk carrier, at Kakinada Port in India after their Greek employer left them behind.
The Filipinos aboard the vessel called for the DFA for their immediate repatriation and in the collection of their salaries from their employers.
