All 14 Pinoy seafarers abandoned in Turkiye now back in PH — DMW

All 14 Pinoy seafarers abandoned in Turkiye now back in PH — DMW
MARIEL CELINE SERQUIÑA July 6, 2026 https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/pinoyabroad/dispatch/993927/dmw-filipino...

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) reported Monday that all 14 seafarers who were allegedly abandoned onboard a cargo vessel in Turkiye have safely returned to the Philippines.

In a social media post, the DMW reported the development following the arrival in Manila of the latest batch of nine seafarers from the cargo ship MV Afadja.

They came on board a Turkish Airlines flight and landed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3.

Representatives from the DMW and Overseas Workers Welfare Adminsitration (OWWA) welcomed the seafarers upon their arrival.

Meanwhile, the initial batch of five seafarers returned to the Philippines on June 22.

According to the DMW, the seafarers had been found living aboard the vessel without electricity, potable water or adequate food after the ship was declared unfit to sail due to engine failure and the shipowner "failed to fulfill its obligations."

The seafarers received airport assistance, financial aid, temporary hotel accommodation, and transportation support upon their arrival, DMW said.

They will also be referred to a Department of Health-accredited hospital for psychosocial counseling and receive further legal assistance in pursuing claims for unpaid wages and other benefits.

DMW said the repatriation was coordinated with the Philippine Embassy in Ankara and the Migrant Workers Office in Lebanon. — VDV, GMA News