DFA monitors probe on death of a Filipino seafarer in Vanuatu Beach

DFA monitors probe on death of a Filipino seafarer in Vanuatu Beach
Marje Pelayo • April 20, 2021 https://www.untvweb.com/news/us-advises-citizens-vs-traveling-to-ph-due-...

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is keeping track of the ongoing investigation on the death of a Filipino seafarer whose body was found on the beach of Vanuatu, an island country in the South Pacific.

DFA Executive Director for Strategic Communications Ivy Banzon-Abalos confirmed to reporters that a three-day suspension of outbound travel from the island of Efate in Vanuatu was prompted after the Filipino was found dead on the beach.

She said they have yet to confirm if the Filipino was positive for COVID-19.

“The Philippine Embassy in Australia, through the Philippine Consulate General in Vanuatu, has been in touch with the manning agency which has informed the seaman’s family,” Abalos said. “The embassy is closely monitoring this ongoing investigation of the seaman’s death. The embassy in Australia stands ready to provide the appropriate assistance on the repatriation of the remains.”

The victim’s manning agency is handling the investigation. According to the law, the victim’s local manning agency should be responsible for the relatives of the deceased seafarer.