DFA working to repatriate 50 Pinoy fishermen from Papua New Guinea

Philippine officials are working to repatriate some 50 Filipino fishermen still stranded and deemed staying illegally in Papua New Guinea.

 

The Department of Foreign Affairs has instructed the Philippine Embassy there to help the stranded fishermen, radio dzBB reported over the weekend.

 

DFA spokesman Raul Hernandez said the Philippine Embassy is making representations with the appropriate authorities for the fishermen's exit documents.

 

If needed, he said the embassy will issue emergency travel documents to the fishermen.

 

Hernandez cited initial reports indicating the fishermen went directly Manus province aboard two fishing vessels, which have since sunk.

 

The fishermen may not have followed the normal procedures to gain employment there, he added. — RSJ, GMA News