BUTUAN CITY – Philippine authorities are currently providing assistance to a group of Filipino seafarers involved in a major drug bust in South Korea, according to a statement from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Friday, April 11.
According to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the crew members are not under arrest but remain on the vessel, docked in Gangneung City, as the probe continues. DMW Undersecretary Felicitas Bay assured the public that the seafarers are in good health and are being supported with food, wages, and legal assistance by their shipping agency.
A Filipino interpreter and lawyer have been provided, and a DMW representative has already visited the crew.
DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac said they are refraining from discussing the seafarers’ possible knowledge or involvement in the incident, emphasizing the importance of due process.
“There will be a proper time to lay down the defenses,” Cacdac noted, adding that the department is focused on advising and assisting the crew during the investigation.
South Korea enforces some of the world’s strictest drug laws, with violations punishable by six months to 15 years in prison.
