24/07/2025
⚓ FROM PROMISING OFFICER TO PRISONER: THE 18-YEAR FALL OF HAROLD ESTOESTA
When Harold Estoesta stepped aboard the MV Matthew, he was supposed to be living the dream many Filipino cadets work years to reach. He had just joined the vessel, kakasampa lang, as we say. A fresh posting. A second officer's role. For most, it’s a badge of honor.
But just days into the voyage, Harold found himself in the middle of what would become Ireland’s largest-ever co***ne seizure: over 2.2 tonnes of co***ne, hidden aboard their ship, with a street value of €157 million.
👨✈️ WHO WAS HAROLD BEFORE THE FALL?
Harold Estoesta wasn’t just some random crew. He was well-educated. Sharp. Fluent in English. A graduate of a Philippine maritime academy known for producing elite officers. Those who knew him described him as diligent, smart, and competent. He earned the position of second officer — a role that often handles communication, navigation, and bridge watchkeeping. In short: someone trusted.
That trust would become the center of his downfall.
🧩 THE DRUG RAID THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING
In September 2023, the Irish Navy launched Operation Seabight, intercepting the MV Matthew off the coast of Cork. The vessel was flagged for suspicious movement, possibly preparing a mid-sea drop of illicit cargo to a smaller fishing vessel (Castlemore).
What they found onboard shocked even Irish authorities:
- 🚨 Over 2.2 tonnes of pure co***ne
- 🚨 A multinational crew: Filipinos, Iranians, Ukrainians, Dutch
- 🚨 Encrypted communications and WhatsApp group chats coordinating the operation
Among the arrested: Harold Estoesta, second officer.
🗣️ HIS DEFENSE: “I WAS TRICKED”
At first, Harold told Irish investigators:
“I was told we were just carrying spare parts. I followed the orders of my seniors. I didn't know what was really happening.”
He claimed:
- He was a new joiner, unaware of the cargo's real contents.
- He was terrified when he saw armed men at sea moving cargo.
- He feared for his l
