Protests Erupt Over Forcible Removal of Filipino Workers from Carnival Cruise Ship in Baltimore

About 35 people protested outside the Carnival Cruise Line terminal in Baltimore on September 14, 2025, following the reported forcible removal of four Filipino hospitality workers from the Carnival Pride on September 7. Advocates expressed outrage over the lack of due process as federal agents detained and deported the workers, with uncertainty about whether U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) was involved.

Former Filipino seafarer Philip Coronado called for the workers’ rights to due process to be upheld, seeking assistance for those wrongfully accused. Advocacy organizers criticized Carnival Cruise for failing to protect the workers and highlighted the inaction of the Philippine government regarding the issue.

Mark Rodrigo, an education officer with the Malaya Movement Baltimore, described the incident as a "heinous act." The group urged Filipino governmental leaders to advocate for their citizens facing hardships abroad, linking systemic issues in the Philippines—especially economic strife and a lack of true democracy—to forced emigration and subsequent mistreatment of migrants.

Since the start of the year, a national alliance named Tanggol Migrante has reported more than 100 Filipino deportations from U.S. seaports, with ICE’s actions leading to severe repercussions for migrant workers. In August, 28 workers were removed from another Carnival cruise ship in Norfolk, Virginia.

The rally was triggered by accounts from the detained workers, including claims of being interrogated for hours and accused of serious crimes without any substantiated evidence, like child pornography—noted to have stemmed from innocent family photographs. ICE’s refusal to comment and Carnival’s statement deferring to law enforcement added to the frustrations of those advocating for the workers.

For more information on related developments, visit Tanggol Migrante and news reports regarding the ongoing situation faced by Filipino workers in the U.S.

Set sail on a voyage of discovery with CruiseShip.net – your ultimate destination for all things cruising! Explore the latest news, insightful reviews, and thrilling cruising adventures from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, CruiseShip.net is your go-to source for expert advice, insider tips, and inspiring stories to fuel your wanderlust. Embark on a journey like no other with CruiseShip.net – where every wave brings new excitement and endless possibilities on the high seas.