Filipino seafarers stranded in China to get pay

MANILA, Philippines — Filipino seafarers stranded on board their vessel in China for 17 months would be entitled to their salaries until they have returned to the country, even if their employment contract has ended, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) said.

The 13 Filipino crew members of the MV Angelic Power said the vessel’s owner had abandoned them. Bernard Olalia, POEA administrator, said the seafarers would be entitled to monthly salaries even if their employment was over.

The money would be sent to their families, he said.

“So while they are stranded, their respective families would receive an allotment. The manning agency would send the salaries of the seafarers to their respective families until they have returned,” he said. —Leila B. Salaverria