Pinoy seafarers lament being stranded in China for 17 months due to legal proceedings

A group of Filipino seafarers lamented being stranded in China for 17 months after their vessel was involved in legal proceedings.

The seamen narrated their experiences during a House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs briefing on the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on OFWs, according to a report by Cedric Castillo on Balitanghali on Friday.

"Thirteen of us who are crew members... After getting discharged, we were detained and were held hostage by the Chinese government," claimed seafarer Leonardo Lansang Jr. in Filipino.

"We could not do anything because our passports were taken by the Chinese court," Lansang added.

The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) admitted that they could not set a date when the Filipino seafarers could go back home due to COVID-19 travel restrictions between China and the Philippines.

"Your vessel is embroiled in legal proceedings. The owner of the boat has a case against another owner because the vessel was sold. The owner said they needed your testimonies thus the delay of your repatriation," POEA chief Bernard Olalia explained to the seafarers.

"We already ordered them to prioritize your repatriation. The good thing is while you are there and during the time your contract expired, you will continuously receive your salaries," Olalia added.

Despite the POEA's assurances, the seafarers worried that they might not receive their pay for the months that they were prevented from going home.

"Habang nandito kami, patuloy naman kaming nagtatrabaho kaya dapat lang na magkaroon kami ng suweldo. The fact is, Mr. chair, 'yung pagtengga na bakit kami tumagal nang ganito?" said Lansang.

(We continued to work while we are here that's why we should have our salaries. The fact is, Mr. Chair, that we are stranded. Why did it take so long?)

Olalia said they had directed the Magsaysay Maritime Corporation to pay their basic monthly pay which is retroactive from the time the payment was halted.

"We have been working tirelessly to ensure their welfare and have advocated for their rights every step of the way since we learned of the situation onboard the ship. We too, want nothing less than the crew's immediate repatriation and the prompt payment of what is owed them," said the Magsaysay Maritime Corporation in a statement.

"Unfortunately, and much to our regret and frustration, this is easier said than done because of legal and regulatory considerations. The ship and its owners are currently embroiled in legal proceedings affecting not only their interests, but the crew's as well," it added.

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) said it will coordinate with the Department of Foreign Affairs for the consulate to address the seafarers' needs.

In a separate interview on Balitanghali, Olalia said the POEA had directed the seafarers' agency to assist with their needs, including food and health. — Jamil Santos/DVM, GMA News