DFA repatriates 15 Filipino fishermen jailed in Indonesia

Written by Cristina Lee-Pisco                      Published in Overseas Filipino Workers

THE Department of Foreign Affairs has repatriated 15 Filipino fishermen imprisoned by Indonesian authorities for alleged illegal fishing in their waters.
The DFA said the boat captains were released to officials of the Consulate General after serving jail terms of five months to three years.
“Before leaving for the Philippines, the boat captains expressed their appreciation for the welfare assistance extended to them while they were still in prison,” Consul General Oscar Orcine said.
Orcine said the boat captains were given welfare assistance of P5,000 each before they boarded their flights to the Philippines.
The Philippine Consulate General in Manado also repatriated on Monday five other Filipinos who were held for overstaying.
The Consulate General lobbied the release of the five with Indonesian authorities.

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