8 Filipino seafarers released from detention in Malaysia

Eight Filipino seafarers, along with 12 Indian crew members, detained in Malaysia over alleged immigration violations have been released on April 18, 2025.

The crew of the vessel MT Krishna 1 were detained on April 11, 2025, by Royal Malaysian Police near the Singapore Strait for allegedly disembarking in Malaysian waters without passports or valid documents.

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Philippine embassy in Kuala Lumpur, and the Department of Foreign Affairs facilitated their release through coordinated efforts.

The DMW-Migrant Workers Office in Malaysia coordinated with Kota Tinggi police to ensure the seafarers' safety and well-being.

Legal and welfare assistance was provided throughout the process, and arrangements for their repatriation to the Philippines are underway.

The manning agency has pledged to continue salary and benefit payments to the seafarers and their families.