Seoul: The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Tuesday announced its commitment to provide legal assistance to the 20 Filipino crew members of M/V Lunita, a vessel seized by South Korean authorities for allegedly carrying two tons of cocaine.

According to Philippines News Agency, DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac revealed in a television interview that within the next two days, the department will integrate its own lawyers into the legal team supporting the crew. The Norwegian-flagged cargo vessel, manned by Filipino crew, was intercepted by the Korea Coast Guard and Korea Customs Service at the port of Okgye in Gangwon province on April 2. Reports indicate that the suspected contraband was located in the ship's engine room.

Cacdac emphasized the importance of providing legal assistance during the ongoing investigation, stating, "They are entitled to their defense to be presumed innocent, so we are providing the necessary legal counsel in tandem with the one provided by the ship owner." He also mentioned the DMW's collaboration with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to ensure comprehensive support for the crew.

The management of M/V Lunita, J.J. Ugland Companies, had previously appointed a lawyer for the affected crew members. In a statement, the company expressed its serious stance on the matter, reaffirming its zero tolerance for illegal activities and commitment to reviewing and potentially enhancing security measures on its vessels.

Prior to the seizure, M/V Lunita had been operating regularly in regions including Mexico, Ecuador, Panama, China, and South Korea.