A 32-year-old Filipino crew member assigned to MSC Cruises’ MSC Poesia was confirmed deceased 5 days after being reported missing during the vessel’s transit from Montevideo (Uruguay) to Brazil. The Philippine Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) disclosed the incident on March 6th, identifying the individual as Jeric Bueno, a waiter aboard the ship.
Surveillance footage reviewed after Bueno failed to report for duty on February 22nd indicated he fell overboard from Deck 7 near the life raft station. The Uruguayan Navy initiated search operations with aerial and maritime assets, later transitioned to Brazilian authorities as the ship proceeded on its itinerary. Bueno’s remains were recovered on February 27th.
DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac confirmed coordination with MSC Cruises and Bueno’s manning agency to provide financial aid, psychological support, and logistical assistance for repatriating the remains. Evidence, including CCTV recordings, has been transferred to relevant authorities to determine the circumstances of the incident, with foul play not yet ruled out.
The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding maritime occupational safety, particularly for Filipino seafarers, who comprise a substantial segment of the global cruise workforce. Advocacy groups reiterate calls for enhanced safety protocols and oversight.
An official investigation remains ongoing, with no further operational disruptions reported aboard MSC Poesia.
For more MSC Poesia incidents and accidents see the ship's CruiseMinus page.