Repatriation Expenses; Advance and Recovery.
Section 62
SEC. 62. Repatriation Expenses; Advance and Recovery. - The repatriation expenses that shall be borne by the concerned shipowner or manning agency shall include: (a) Basic pay and allowances from the moment the seafarers leave the ship until they reach the repatriation destination; (b) Accommodation and food from the moment the seafarers leave the ship until they reach the repatriation destination; (c) Transportation charges, wherein the default mode of transport should be by air; (d) Deployment cost of the shipowner; and (e) Immigration fees, fines, and penalties. However, in cases where the termination of employment is for just cause or upon the request of the seafarer, the cost of repatriation shall be for the account of the seafarer in accordance with the employment agreement. The responsibility to provide for repatriation costs shall be without prejudice to the right to civil, criminal, or other claims in accordance with law or otherwise, particularly in cases of maritime accident or death other than natural causes.