8 Filipino seafarers released in Malaysia

Eight Filipino seafarers who were detained in Malaysia for alleged violations of immigration laws have been released, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Friday.

The crew members of MT Krishna 1 were detained at a police station in Kota Tinggi, Johor, last April 11th and were freed following a welfare visit by Labor Attaché Jocelyn Ortega and a DMW lawyer, along with the decision of the Prosecutor's Office in Johor.

DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac assured that legal assistance will continue to be provided while the investigation is ongoing, and preparations are being made for their immediate repatriation back to the Philippines.

The families of the seafarers have been contacted by the DMW and assured of their safety.

Additionally, the Department of Migrant Workers plans to investigate both the licensed manning agency and shipowner to determine the circumstances leading to the detention.