Undersecretary de Vega (far left), Ambassador Henry S. Bensurto, Jr. (far right), meet with officials of the Directorate of Sincan Number 4 L Type Closed Penitentiary in Ankara, where six Filipino seafarers are being detained (Embassy Photo)

ANKARA, 18 June 2024 – Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs Eduardo José A. de Vega, accompanied by Ambassador to the Republic of Türkiye Henry S. Bensurto, Jr., made a compassionate visit on 13 June 2024 to six Filipino seafarers of Phoenician M who are currently detained at the Directorate of Sincan Number 4 L Type Closed Penitentiary in Ankara. The seafarers are charged with alleged drug smuggling.

During the visit, the Undersecretary and the Ambassador met with Penitentiary officials and the seafarers to emphasize the Philippines' dedication to safeguarding its citizens worldwide.  END