Filipino Crew from Houthi-Hit Ship Safely Repatriated to Manila

The last group of Filipino crew members from the M/V Minoan Courage, which was attacked by Houthi rebels, safely arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 in Pasay City on Wednesday. The 10 seafarers landed via Etihad Airways Flight 424, marking the final batch of 21 Filipino crew members repatriated after the Greek bulker was struck while crossing the Red Sea on October 1, 2024. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed that all crew members are now back in the country, thanks to the collaborative efforts of DMW, OWWA, licensed manning agencies, and the shipowner.

The crew members will undergo psychiatric evaluation and receive necessary assistance from the DMW Aksyon Fund and OWWA. The first group of seven seafarers returned on October 9, followed by another batch of four on October 13. The DMW emphasized the safety and successful repatriation of all crew members, highlighting the joint coordination that made it possible. The incident involving the M/V Minoan Courage served as a reminder of the risks faced by seafarers in their line of work, underscoring the importance of swift and effective repatriation efforts in times of crisis.

The arrival of the Filipino seafarers at NAIA Terminal 3 symbolized a homecoming after a harrowing experience at sea. The DMW’s active involvement in the repatriation process, along with the support of OWWA and other stakeholders, ensured the safe return of all crew members. The seafarers’ well-being remains a top priority, with comprehensive assistance and evaluations in place to address any lingering effects of the traumatic event. The successful repatriation of the M/V Minoan Courage crew members stands as a testament to the dedication and efficiency of the organizations involved in safeguarding the welfare of Filipino workers abroad.

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