Seafarers’ families seek Marcos’ help in Algeria case
The wives of three Filipino seafarers detained in Algeria are appealing to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to pursue a government-to-government approach to help secure their husbands’ release. In a press conference held in Manila on June 6, the families of the detained seafarers pleaded for direct diplomatic intervention, expressing frustration over the prolonged detention and legal limbo. The three were among eight Filipino crew members arrested in July 2023 after Algerian authorities found over 38 kilograms of cocaine on the vessel they were manning. The seafarers are currently held at the Berrouaghia facility in Algeria. The families maintain the men's innocence, insisting they were not aware of the illegal cargo. They are asking the Philippine government to take stronger action, including direct coordination with Algerian authorities, to ensure due process and humanitarian consideration.
Photo by Toto Lozano for DAILY TRIBUNE