DMW Chief says Filipino seafarers remain determined despite the risks of Red Sea voyages

Despite the designation of the Red Sea and the Bab El-Mandeb Strait as “high-risk areas” weeks ago, Filipino seafarers are still determined to board marine vessels passing through the area, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). DMW Officer-in-Charge Undersecretary Hans Leo Cacdac stated that they have not received any reports of Filipino seafarers refusing to pass through the area, emphasizing the resilience of the seafarers. The International Bargaining Forum (IBF) had designated the Red Sea and the Bab El-Mandeb Strait as “high-risk areas” just before Christmas Day due to a series of drone, missile, and armed attacks on vessels in the area since November.

Cacdac assured that the DMW is prioritizing the welfare of Filipino sea-based workers and hopes that they will not take unnecessary risks. He emphasized the importance of seafarers’ safety and expressed hope for an improvement in the situation in the “high-risk” areas. Cacdac also mentioned the government’s optimism for an improvement in the situation, citing the increase in global trade activity that occurred in 2023 and the hope that it will carry over to 2022. Despite the risks, Filipino seafarers remain determined to continue their work in the area, showing their resilience in the face of challenges.

Source .