Philippine authorities intervened in a crew dispute involving Filipino and Indian seafarers stranded on a cargo ship anchored in the Iloilo Strait. The disagreement centered on unpaid wages, lack of food and water, and claims that the vessel was unsafe. The crew refused to sail due to safety concerns, while the shipowners withheld pay to pressure them into departure.
Political Support Leads to Action
Julienne “Jam Jam” Baronda, Iloilo City’s newly elected representative, stepped in to support the stranded crew. She gathered key government agencies and negotiated with the shipowner. On June 30, authorities evacuated six Filipino seafarers and brought them to a hotel for medical checks before repatriation. Seven Indian crew members were scheduled to leave the vessel on July 1.
Vessel’s Ownership and History
The 6,749 dwt cargo ship, built in 2005, previously operated under Chinese ownership until 2024. The current owner is reportedly based in the UAE. The vessel, now named Hirman Star and flagged under Comoros, was formerly listed as Dong Hong Shun. Maritime databases list its flag and manager as unknown.
Safety Failures and Detention
In August 2024, the ship delivered rice from Vietnam to the Philippines. A Port State Inspection found 27 deficiencies, including expired certificates. Authorities issued a detention order based on safety concerns.
A new crew joined on April 3, 2025, and was instructed to prepare for a trip to Singapore. Although officials lifted the detention in April and granted port clearance by May 7, safety issues remained unresolved.
Refusal to Sail Over Technical Issues
Before departure, the ship’s gyro compass failed. The captain said the owners instructed them to use only a magnetic compass. He refused, citing unacceptable risk. The crew also discovered a crack in the bulbous bow that caused water ingress and increased the vessel’s list. These findings confirmed their belief that the ship was unsafe.
Crew Denied Wages and Supplies
On May 12, the owners cut off food and water supplies. They paid only partial April wages and nothing for May. The owners told the crew that full payment would only follow once the vessel left port. The crew, refusing to compromise their safety, stood firm and refused to sail.
Authorities Negotiate Resolution
Baronda led a June 30 meeting with the Department of Migrant Workers, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, the Philippine Coast Guard, the Bureau of Immigration, the Bureau of Customs, and MARINA. She also engaged with the shipowner’s local representative and the crewing agencies.
The meeting resulted in an agreement to pay all outstanding wages and restore provisions. Baronda and officials visited the ship to meet the crew, ensure their safety, and facilitate their disembarkation. The Philippine government pledged financial aid for the Filipino seafarers. The Indian Embassy supported the Indian crew’s repatriation.
Global Concerns About Crew Abandonment
This case illustrates a growing problem of crew abandonment. In May, the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) warned that 2024 could set records for such incidents. The ITF continues pushing for stricter enforcement of maritime labor standards to protect seafarers’ rights and ensure accountability from shipowners.
Urgent Need for Reform
With the crew safe and negotiations complete, this case underscores the urgent need for systemic reform. Governments, global agencies, and shipping companies must work together to prevent crew exploitation and ensure safe working conditions at sea.
This outcome was possible because of rapid government response and international cooperation. As global shipping expands, safeguarding seafarers must remain a global priority.
