Two Filipino seafarers, John Lyod Restauro and a colleague, returned to the Philippines after nearly two years trapped in Fiji due to exploitative practices by Goundar Shipping. Their ordeal was highlighted by an investigation from the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), which revealed that Goundar misled a total of 21 Filipino seafarers, enticing them to Fiji with false promises of good wages and conditions. Upon arrival, the company abruptly changed their contracts from US dollars to Fijian dollars, drastically reducing their pay.
Restauro described his experience in interviews, emphasizing that he ended up paying for everything himself—contrary to Filipino law which prohibits manning agencies from charging seafarers for medical and other expenses. Furthermore, he stated that the agency, Able Maritime Seafarers Inc., forced him and the crew to sign a revised contract shortly before their departure, which halved their wages and contained unacceptable conditions. Such practices violate regulations set by the Philippines Overseas Employment Administration (POEA).
The situation escalated as Goundar Shipping seized the seafarers’ passports and withheld wages, effectively trapping them in Fiji—actions that are clear indicators of human trafficking. When some seafarers sought assistance from unions, they were fired and left homeless. The ITF, alongside local advocates, provided essential support, including shelter and food. The repatriation process was prolonged due to issues related to COVID-19, delaying their return until September 29, when the final two seafarers flew home after securing tickets in June.
The ITF has been actively involved in addressing the unlawful actions of Goundar Shipping and Able Maritime, the latter facing potential red-listing due to its behavior. Despite a brief suspension from the POEA earlier in the year, the agency was reinstated after providing reassurances, sparking concerns about the regulation of manning agencies.
Restauro’s willingness to speak out is rare within Filipino culture, where acceptance of adverse circumstances is more common. Nonetheless, he stressed the need for accountability for exploitative practices, stating, “A lot of seafarers have suffered.”
ITF officials are urging both the Fijian and Philippine governments to take significant actions against such exploitation. Allegations of human trafficking against Goundar initiated investigations by local authorities, while the ITF continues to advocate for the rights and protection of seafarers.
Notably, the situation highlights the broader issues facing maritime workers in the Pacific, whose contributions are vital to their home economies. The ITF remains committed to ensuring that seafarers are treated with the respect and protections they deserve, fighting for justice in instances of exploitation.
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