MANILA – The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) have successfully rescued 32 Filipino seafarers from abusive working conditions in Fiji after months of suffering under their employer.

The seafarers were victims of contract substitution, delayed wages, and maltreatment. They were initially promised a monthly salary of ₱60,000 but reportedly received only ₱20,000, often paid late.

Following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure the protection and welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) worldwide, the DMW immediately acted upon learning of the workers’ situation and identified violations in their employment contracts.

Labor Attaché Antonio Mutuc Jr. personally visited the seafarers and facilitated their repatriation to the Philippines. The DMW has also begun an investigation into the employer and the recruitment agency involved and is prepared to impose disciplinary actions to secure justice for the affected workers.

Upon their return to the country, each seafarer received ₱50,000 in financial assistance from the AKSYON Fund, along with psychosocial services and reintegration support to help them rebuild their lives.

The DMW also reminded Filipinos seeking employment abroad to ensure that recruitment agencies are registered and authorized, and that they comply with government regulations.