17 Filipino sailors detained by Houthi rebels confirmed to be safe by DMW

Yemen’s Huthi rebels captured an Israel-linked cargo vessel in the Red Sea, warning that Israeli ships are a “legitimate target” in response to the Israel-Hamas war. All 17 Filipino seafarers taken hostage by the rebels are reported to be safe and have contacted their families, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) in the Philippines. The DMW is coordinating with the families and working with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and other governments to secure the safe release and return of the seafarers. The vessel is still anchored off the coast of Yemen, and the recent designation of the Red Sea’s southern section and the Bab El-Mandeb Strait as high-risk areas will provide additional protection to Filipino seafarers.

The capture of the cargo vessel Galaxy Leader by Huthi rebels in the Red Sea has raised concerns for the safety of the 25 international crew members, including 17 Filipino seafarers. The DMW has confirmed that the seafarers are safe and in contact with their families, and efforts are underway to secure their release. The DFA is working with other governments to ensure the safe return of the seafarers, and the recent designation of high-risk areas in the Red Sea will provide additional protection for Filipino seafarers. Meanwhile, Filipino domestic helpers in Hong Kong are set to receive a salary increase next year, benefiting from wage legislation set by Hong Kong’s labor department.

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