The Philippine Embassy in Washington has appealed to US authorities following reports of the deportation of nearly 100 Filipino seafarers in the first half of 2025.
❌ According to the government, cases of crew members being removed from ships in US ports and expelled from the country have increased in recent months. US authorities stated that these actions are being carried out “in accordance with applicable laws and policies.”
In July, the International Seafarers’ Rights Center reported “unfair and inhumane treatment” of more than 100 seafarers.
💬 One of the most widely discussed cases occurred in the port of Norfolk, Virginia: 21 Filipinos from the Carnival Sunshine were arrested and deported. According to the center, they held valid C-1/D visas, provided no evidence of the charges, and were banned from entering the United States for 10 years.
The Philippines’ Department of Migrant Labor (DMW) stated its readiness to provide assistance to the affected seafarers. At a Senate hearing in August, it confirmed that at least 93 people had been deported as of mid-2025, with no criminal cases filed.
👥 Seafarers reported being removed from ships and forced to sign documents “voluntarily waiving” their U.S. visas.
Seamen’s Club 🇺🇦 | #news