The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) assured Friday, April 24, 2026, that the Philippine government is intensifying efforts to bolster the legal defense of three Filipino seafarers currently detained in Algeria on drug trafficking charges.
Government Coordination and Legal Review
In a statement, DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said they are in close coordination with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to ensure the welfare of the detained Filipino seafarers. “The government is carefully reviewing the seafarers’ legal options, particularly any plea that could affect their appeal,” Cacdac stated. “We are working closely with the DFA to assess the merits of their plea and its potential impact on the appeal. Based on this, we will make the appropriate recommendation to the President,” he added.
Support for Families
Cacdac also emphasized that they remain in constant contact with the families of the seafarers, providing assistance as the case progresses. “We remain in touch with the families and have been supporting them throughout the past three years as the case continues,” he said.
Background of the Case
The three seafarers were among eight Filipino crew members arrested on July 28, 2023, after Algerian authorities discovered approximately 35.8 kilograms of cocaine on board the commercial vessel CV Harris while it was docked at the Port of Algiers. During the initial trial, all eight were sentenced to 20 years of imprisonment. However, upon appeal, five were acquitted and returned to the Philippines. The remaining three received reduced sentences of 15 years.
