The Department of Migrant Workers has confirmed the repatriation of forty Filipino seafarers following a collision in the Singapore Strait. DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac assured that all crew members are safe and that arrangements for their return are underway, coordinated with relevant agencies and the Philippine Embassy in Singapore.
During the Philippine Maritime Convention 2026, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the government’s commitment to Filipino seafarers, highlighting the significance of Republic Act 12021. He emphasized the need for enhanced protections amid rising security threats, including recent tragedies at sea, and called for collaboration to safeguard the rights and welfare of mariners.
The remains of two Filipino seafarers, lost in an attack in the Strait of Hormuz aboard the M/V SIDR on August 31, were repatriated to the Philippines on September 12, 2026. The Department of Migrant Workers confirmed the return, pledging government assistance to the grieving families during this challenging time.
Amid a surge in attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz and the Black Sea, the Philippine government is ramping up efforts to protect its seafarers. The DMW is enforcing stricter deployment restrictions and investigating agency compliance, following fatal incidents and renewed threats to Filipino crews in high-risk maritime zones.
Twenty-six Filipino seafarers safely disembarked from the bulk carrier Gingo after it was attacked while docked in Ukraine. As of September 4, all crew members were unharmed and awaiting transit to Moldova for repatriation. Philippine officials are coordinating with authorities to ensure their safe return to the Philippines.
Seven Filipino seafarers from the M/T Burgan returned to the Philippines on September 7 after surviving an attack in the Strait of Hormuz. Arriving at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, they received support from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, ensuring their welfare, medical needs, and family reunification were prioritized during their transition home.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is closely monitoring escalating tensions in the Black Sea, where 381 out of 400 Filipino seafarers remain unharmed. However, many wish to return home due to safety concerns. The DMW, alongside the Department of Foreign Affairs, is providing repatriation and financial support to affected individuals.
On August 21, 63 Filipinos, including 46 overseas workers from Kuwait and 17 seafarers from the M/V Minoan Dignity, returned to Manila. Their arrival followed a tragic incident in the Strait of Hormuz, where one crew member lost his life. OWWA provided essential support, including financial aid and accommodation.
On August 15, twenty-one Filipino seafarers returned to Manila after enduring maritime incidents. This group included crew members from three vessels: the M/V Abu Al Abyad, which faced projectile attacks; the M/V En Ocean, abandoned in Malaysia; and the M/V Europe I, which avoided high-risk transit in the Black Sea.
Fourteen Filipino seafarers from the MT Acheloos were repatriated from Oman after a missile incident on July 20, 2026. The Department of Migrant Workers confirmed their safe disembarkation at Shinas Port, followed by transport to Muscat International Airport for their return to the Philippines on August 9.
The Philippines Department of Migrant Workers is committed to enforcing the Magna Carta for Seafarers to protect them from abandonment. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has instructed the department to uphold seafarers’ rights, emphasizing the importance of following international regulations. Efforts are being made to address crew welfare and ensure payment of wages for abandoned seafarers.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is cracking down on ship owners who force Filipino seafarers to sail through dangerous waters like the Gulf of Aden amidst Houthi attacks. DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac stressed the importance of respecting seafarers’ right to refuse boarding in high-risk areas near Yemen, with sanctions for non-compliance.
The Social Security System (SSS) and Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) signed an agreement to create the Maritime Industry Tripartite Council (MITC) for seafarers’ coverage. SSS President Macasaet emphasized the commitment to address maritime employment concerns and provide financial assistance to seafarers and their families. Around 350,000 seafarers are SSS members.
