In 2025, over 2,280 seafarers were abandoned on 222 vessels, a 30% rise from the previous year, according to the ITF. Facing dire conditions, they lack pay, food, and medical aid, with unpaid wages reaching $13.1 million. The situation is particularly severe in the Arab World and Europe.
Recent developments in seafarer employment include a new global minimum wage of $690 per month, effective January 1, 2026, endorsed by the International Chamber of Shipping. Additionally, the UK Government’s Employment Rights Bill has been amended to enhance protections for seafarers, particularly regarding collective redundancies and wage standards.
Authorities have not confirmed the status of 13 missing Filipino seafarers from the MV Eternity C, attacked by Houthi militants. DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac stated they are verifying crew members’ conditions and emphasized ongoing search efforts, despite challenges. The government is in close contact with families regarding the situation.
The Philippine government confirmed the safe return of eight Filipino seafarers from the MV Eternity C, attacked by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. Arriving on July 16 at NAIA Terminal 1, they will receive financial assistance, medical care, and reintegration support following coordinated efforts by the Department of Migrant Workers.
MODEC Production Services Ghana JV Ltd has donated the workboat Handler 2 to the Regional Maritime University in Accra, enhancing maritime training in Ghana. This “floating classroom,” supported by MV25 Charter Fund Partners, will aid students in developing essential seamanship skills, aligning with international training standards.
A recent report by Sailors’ Society reveals the alarming prevalence of bullying and harassment at sea, with active seafarers facing such behavior up to ten times more than non-seafarers. The report highlights the disproportionate impact on female cadets and LGBTQ+ individuals, urging the maritime industry to foster a safer, more inclusive environment.
The Philippine government confirmed that eight out of 21 seafarers from the MV Eternity C have safely arrived in Jizan, Saudi Arabia, following the vessel’s sinking by Houthi militants. The Department of Foreign Affairs is coordinating their care and repatriation, while prohibiting Filipino seafarers from entering the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
A recent advisory from Manila law firm Del Rosario and Del Rosario mandates that licensed manning agencies reroute ships with Filipino seafarers away from high-risk areas, particularly the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. This directive emphasizes the seafarers’ rights to refuse sailing in dangerous zones and ensures their safety.
In response to recent deadly attacks in the Red Sea, the Philippines may limit its nationals from working on vessels in high-risk areas. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is focused on ensuring safety and transparency, requiring risk assessments and immediate reporting of incidents to protect Filipino seafarers and their families.
The Philippines’ Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has issued an urgent advisory for rerouting vessels with Filipino crews from high-risk areas like the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. This directive affirms seafarers’ right to refuse sailing in dangerous zones, following recent attacks affecting their safety. Compliance is mandatory for licensed agencies.
The Department of Migrant Workers announced the safe return of six Filipino seafarers from the MV Magic Seas, attacked by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. They received immediate assistance, including ₱75,000 from the DMW and OWWA, plus ₱10,000 from the DSWD, ensuring support for their reintegration.
The LifeFlight rescue helicopter team successfully rescued two injured seafarers from bulk carriers off the Sunshine Coast. A man in his 40s was winched from a ship with a severe hand injury, while another in his 50s was lifted after sustaining a head injury. Both received immediate medical care and were stabilized for transport.
The maritime industry’s digital transformation is driving a need for seafarers to develop skills in data literacy and AI interaction. Training programs must evolve to prepare crews for technology-enhanced vessels, emphasizing the importance of soft skills alongside technical knowledge for effective decision-making and operational efficiency amidst industry challenges.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has instructed the Department of Migrant Workers to assist families of Filipino seafarers affected by the MV Eternity C sinking, attacked by Houthi rebels. Of the 22 crew members, 21 are Filipinos. Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac reiterated the President’s directive: “Take care of the families.”
Nigerian seafarers are urgently calling for reforms in the maritime sector, citing harassment, poor welfare, and inadequate support. During the 2025 Day of the Seafarers event in Lagos, speakers emphasized the need for enforcing anti-harassment policies and creating safe reporting mechanisms to protect crew members and enhance operational efficiency.
