South Korea launches probe following drug bust on foreign-flagged cargo ship

De Vega told reporters that the Filipino sailors are being investigated by the South Korean authorities but have not been detained and are still on board the vessel.

The ship's owner has already provided a lawyer who will represent the crew.

The DFA meanwhile said it will also be ready to assist should it be called upon to do so by the Department of Migrant Workers, which is the lead Philippine Government agency handling the case.