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.
The Department of Migrant Workers is holding Erica Crew Manning Services accountable after six Filipino seafarers were stranded for two months. Violations include the vessel’s unseaworthiness and delayed wages. The government has initiated sanctions and provided financial aid to the crew, emphasizing its commitment to protecting overseas workers.
Philippines Authorities are considering stricter regulations for Filipino seafarers in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden due to increasing vessel attacks. DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac emphasized the need for monitoring these incidents, especially after the assault on the MV Eternity C. Shipowners must reroute vessels and ensure seafarers are informed about risks.
The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) has urged the Joint Negotiation Group to classify the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman as warlike operating zones. This would allow seafarers to refuse dangerous passage, prioritizing safety. Rising military presence and incidents of drone attacks highlight the escalating risks faced by maritime crews.
The captain of the Hong Kong-registered container ship New Polar Bear, Wan Wenguo, appeared in a Hong Kong court without legal representation, facing charges of criminal damage to a natural gas pipeline and telecommunications cables. The case has been postponed to allow the prosecution to gather further evidence.
