Twenty-six Filipino seafarers safely disembarked from the bulk carrier Gingo after the vessel was attacked while docked in Ukraine, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). The incident occurred on September 2, but as of September 4, all crew members were reported unharmed and were awaiting transit to Moldova for their return to the Philippines.
Philippine officials are actively coordinating with Moldovan authorities and the shipowner to facilitate the processing of the seafarers’ travel documents for their immediate repatriation. Labor Attaché Llewelyn Perez confirmed that the Philippine Embassy and the Consulate in Kyiv are working with relevant authorities and the shipowner to ensure a smooth transition for the crew.
The DMW is also collaborating with the Department of Foreign Affairs, leveraging support from the Philippine Embassy in Warsaw, the Consulate General in Kyiv, and the Migrant Workers Office in Prague. The agency emphasized that the immediate needs of the seafarers are being addressed with assistance from their licensed manning agency and the shipowner.
Additionally, the DMW reassured the families of the seafarers that government agencies and Philippine diplomatic posts are diligently making arrangements for their safe return home.
