Seafarers News

A recent report from the World Maritime University, supported by the ITF Seafarers’ Trust, has exposed the harsh working conditions and fatigue faced by seafarers due to employer practices. Seafarer welfare advocate Katie Higginbottom discussed the findings, emphasizing the need to address minimum safe manning and improve seafarer well-being in the industry. The report revealed alarming statistics on long working hours and inadequate rest periods, highlighting the urgency for industry stakeholders to collaborate and prioritize seafarer welfare.

21 Filipino seafarers rescued from the MV Tutor, attacked by Houthi rebels, are set to arrive in Manila on Monday. President Marcos Jr. directed the rescue, ensuring their safety. Three Filipino workers who died in a Kuwait fire will also be repatriated. The government agencies are expediting the process, providing assistance to the victims’ families during this tragic time.

Adrian Parungao provided updates on the search for a missing Filipino seafarer aboard the MV Tutor, attacked by Houthi rebels. Secretary Hans Cacdac confirmed the seafarer is still missing, with efforts ongoing. The remaining crew members were rescued and will be brought to Bahrain with DMW support. The government is committed to ensuring their safety and finding the missing seafarer.

Charie Abarca reported 21 minutes ago that a Filipino seafarer is missing aboard the MV Tutor vessel after it was hit by missile and drone attacks from Houthi rebels. Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac disclosed that out of the 22 Filipino sailors on board, one is currently missing. Efforts are ongoing to locate and ensure the safety of the missing seafarer.

President Marcos reassured the public of ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and repatriation of Filipino seafarers aboard the MV Tutor, attacked by Houthi rebels. With 22 Filipino seafarers on board and one missing, the government is coordinating with UK authorities to transfer the crew to Djibouti for their return home. The President emphasized the commitment to their safe return and well-being.

Henrik Jensen, CEO of Danica Crewing Specialists, voiced concerns over the shortage of skilled officer seafarers in the maritime industry. He attributed this to Asian economic growth and a lagging education system. Jensen believes this issue will persist, urging investment in training programs. With demand rising, the industry must address the lack of qualified seafarers to ensure its sustainability.

The captain of the oil tanker PS Dream, Abdurrahman Korkmaz, pleaded guilty to violating the Prevention of Pollution from Ships Act and obstructing justice. He admitted to falsifying oil records to conceal illegal discharge of oily waste into the sea. The affiliated companies also pleaded guilty and face sentencing in September.

Transport Malta’s Marine Safety Investigation Unit released a report on a crew member who suffered a serious injury while using a lathe on a vessel. His hand slipped, and his coveralls got caught, resulting in the loss of his fifth digit. The investigation highlighted the importance of proper safety procedures and ongoing training to prevent similar incidents in the future.