The Philippine Embassy in Washington has confirmed it is coordinating with United States authorities following reports that Filipino seafarers were denied entry at several US ports in recent months.
According to the embassy, it has engaged with both the US Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security regarding the reported incidents. The US authorities reportedly said the denials followed existing laws and regulations.
Despite this, the embassy added that it would continue discussions with the relevant agencies to ensure that mandatory consular notification is observed in cases of entry denial.
The embassy also noted that the provision of assistance to affected seafarers, particularly regarding finding new employment, falls under the responsibility of the Philippine Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), which is mandated to support overseas Filipino workers.
In August, around 21 Filipino seafarers from a Carnival Cruise Line ship were reportedly deported after US Customs and Border Protection officers alleged that child pornography materials were found on their devices.
Although none of the crew were confirmed to possess illegal content, some were denied entry, detained, and faced deportation. These seafarers are reportedly subject to a potential ten-year ban on re-entry to the US.
The Department of Migrant Workers has not yet issued a statement on the matter.
Reference: pna gov
