Filipino crew members who were on the Houthi-destroyed vessel return to their homeland
After a harrowing ordeal in the Red Sea, the eight remaining Filipino crew members of the MV Eternity C have safely returned to the Philippines. The ship, which was Liberian-flagged and Greek-owned, was attacked by Houthi rebels on July 8, leaving the crew in a precarious situation.
Initially, two crew members were reported killed, and two others were missing during the attack. However, it was later reported that more than 20 crew members were forced to abandon ship after a prolonged battle with Houthi rebels. The exact status of the missing Filipino seafarers is not explicitly detailed, but it is known that the attack resulted in the sinking of the ship.
The Department of Transportation (DoTr) and the New NAIA Infra Corp. have pledged their support in this challenging time. The crew members arrived on July 16, via flight SV870 at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 in Pasay City. Upon their arrival, they received medical care from the Department of Health and comprehensive reintegration assistance from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority and other members of the National Reintegration Network.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) will provide financial assistance to the crew members through the Aksyon Fund. Additionally, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration's Emergency Repatriation Fund and the Department of Social Welfare and Development will also offer financial aid.
In an effort to verify reports, DMW Undersecretary Bernard Olalia is investigating claims that three of the missing Filipino seafarers may have been killed. There are also reports that the unaccounted sailors are being held hostage by the Houthi rebels. As of now, thirteen Filipino seafarers are still unaccounted for.
This incident has brought attention to the dangers faced by seafarers in the Red Sea, prompting calls for increased support and protection for shipping in the region. The safety of our seafarers is of utmost importance, and efforts are being made to ensure their well-being both at sea and upon their return home.
- Amidst the ongoing investigation, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is working to provide education and resources for the families of the thirteen missing Filipino seafarers, to help them navigate this difficult time.
- As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the attack in the Red Sea, politics and general news discussions have centered around the need for improved health care services for seafarers, given the physical and mental toll these conflicts can take.
- In light of increased war-and-conflicts in the Red Sea, the Philippine government has made new strides in international politics, working closely with other nations to implement policies aimed at ensuring the safety and protection of their seafarers in these volatile regions.
