(Eagle News)–Nineteen Filipino seafarers are being held in Mexico allegedly over illegal drugs, the Department of Foreign Affairs said on Tuesday, July 30.
In a statement, the DFA said the 19 were part of the 22 crewmen of the Cypriot-flagged vessel UBC Savannah that was detained on July 27.
The other three are Polish.
“Embassy representatives were able to speak with seven of the Filipino seafarers currently detained for questioning,” the DFA said, noting that they were “generally in good spirits.”
According to the DFA, so far, no formal charges have been filed against any seafarer.
“The DFA stands ready to provide any form of assistance, including legal assistance if still necessary, to protect the Filipino seafarers’ right to be heard in court,” the DFA said.
The DFA said should they be found guilty, however, by a “proper court,” they “have to face the legal consequences of their actions.”
The DFA said it is “actively monitoring” the situation.