DAYS after their rescue from the ill-fated cargo ship M/V MSC Elsa 3, 20 Filipino crew members are now awaiting repatriation from India, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).
In a statement on Wednesday night, the DMW said the Filipino seafarers are currently staying at a local hotel in Kochi, India, while waiting for their homecoming.
Last Saturday, the M/V MSC Elsa 3 capsized off the coast of the port city of Kochi. The crew, including the Filipino seafarers, abandoned the ship just before it sank.
“The Department is in coordination with the Philippine Embassy, local manning agency (LMA), and the principal are now arranging the seafarers’ immediate repatriation,” said the DMW.
While they are in their accommodation, the DMW assured that the basic needs of the seafarers will be adequately provided by the concerned LMA.
“We will ensure the safety and well-being of our seafarers, especially during this unfortunate situation,” said the DMW.
It said the LMA will also provide adequate legal support and interpreters to the seafarers as they continue to participate in the investigation Indian authorities are conducting.
