Two of the seven Filipino crew members injured aboard the MV CMA CGM San Antonio have returned to the Philippines. They arrived on May 15 and were greeted by their families, along with officials from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). The seafarers received initial financial assistance from both agencies, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the shipowner, the licensed manning agency, the Philippine Embassy, and the Migrant Workers Office in Oman.
Assistant Secretary Jerome T. Pampolina assured that the returning crew members would continue to receive comprehensive medical and psychological support until they fully recover. He expressed hope for the swift recovery and eventual return of the remaining five injured crew members still overseas. The incident occurred on May 5, when the CMA CGM San Antonio was attacked while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in injuries to several crew members.
In related news, the latest Seafarers Happiness Index from The Mission to Seafarers indicates a decline in crew welfare, with the score dropping to 7.18 in Q1 2026 from 7.26 the previous quarter. This decline highlights the impact of global events on maritime workers, who continue to face challenges such as heavy workloads, fatigue, and extended periods away from their families amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
