19 Pinoy seamen held in Mexico for drugs

MANILA, Philippines — Nineteen Filipinos and three Polish seafarers of a Cypriot-flagged vessel have been detained in Mexico for possession of illegal drugs, according to an embassy report.

The Philippine embassy in Mexico informed the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in Manila that the 22 seafarers of the UBC Savannah were being held for allegedly violating Mexico’s drug law.

The vessel docked at the Altamira Port on July 27.

Embassy representatives were able to speak with seven of the 19 detained Filipinos.

“The group is in good spirits. They told embassy representatives that their families have been informed about the matter,” the DFA said.

The embassy is coordinating with both the Mexican authorities and the law firm representing the seafarers.

“At this point, no formal charges have been filed against any seafarer,” the DFA said, adding the Philippine government is ready to help the Filipinos, including legal assistance if necessary.

“However, should they be found guilty by the court of any charges that will be filed against them, they have to face the legal consequences of their actions,” DFA said.

“The public is reminded that the Philippine government expects all Filipinos to follow the laws of their countries of destination,” it said.