The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is actively monitoring the situation in the Black Sea, where tensions have escalated. DMW chief Cacdac reported that out of 400 seafarers in the region, 381 are unharmed. However, many Filipino seafarers are expressing a desire to return to the Philippines due to the increasing dangers. Cacdac noted that some have indicated they prefer not to navigate the northern Black Sea because of the severity of the circumstances.
In response to the crisis, the DMW, in collaboration with the Department of Foreign Affairs, is offering various forms of assistance to affected seafarers, including repatriation and financial support. Additionally, families of those impacted have received help, such as psychosocial support and educational resources for children of the deceased.
The DMW has reported that three Filipino seafarers have lost their lives, while 15 others sustained injuries from attacks in the Black Sea. In light of these events, the DMW has urged shipowners and licensed manning agencies to reroute their vessels away from high-risk areas, including the Black Sea, to ensure the safety of Filipino seafarers.
