Filipino seafarers demand change amidst Red Sea shipping crisis

The Filipino seafaring community is facing challenges with the recent deadly bulk carrier attack in the Gulf of Aden and the abduction of 25 seafarers, including 17 Filipinos, by Houthi rebels near Yemen. The government in Manila is working with other countries to negotiate for the release of the crew, with Foreign Undersecretary Eduardo De Vega expressing frustration at the slow progress. The ship, Galaxy Leader, owned by Ray Car Carriers and operated by Nippon Yusen Kaisha, was hijacked and taken to Salif port in Yemen, with concerns raised about the crew’s deteriorating health.

The ship’s owner has called on the Houthis to show compassion during Ramadan and release the innocent seafarers, with the International Maritime Organization also advocating for the crew’s freedom. Tragic incidents like the recent missile attack on the bulk carrier True Confidence, resulting in casualties, highlight the dangers faced by seafarers in the region. Survivors have been repatriated to the Philippines, receiving financial assistance from the government, while the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines has urged shipowners to divert vessels away from high-risk areas until safety can be guaranteed.

The ongoing crisis in the Red Sea has raised concerns about the safety of seafarers, with calls for collaborative efforts between maritime stakeholders and government authorities to ensure their security. Survivors of the attacks have expressed their devastation and the need for support, emphasizing the impact on their families. The situation highlights the risks faced by seafarers in conflict zones and the importance of ensuring their safety during transit.

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