Six Filipino seafarers, who endured harsh conditions and over two months of unpaid wages, were safely repatriated to the Philippines from Suriname on December 26, 2025. Welcomed by DMW Assistant Secretary Maria Regina Angela Galias, they received immediate financial aid and support for their return, emphasizing the commitment to protect overseas workers’ rights.
Nine Filipino seafarers from the M/V Eternity C returned to Manila after being held hostage by Houthi rebels for five months. Their arrival at Ninoy Aquino International Airport was facilitated by the Department of Migrant Workers, with support from Oman. They expressed gratitude for their unexpected release just before Christmas.
The Department of Migrant Workers has announced the repatriation of Filipino seafarers previously held hostage by Houthi rebels. The crew of the MV Eternity C has safely arrived in Muscat, Oman, as efforts continue to finalize their return to the Philippines. This situation underscores the dangers faced by seafarers in conflict zones.
Nigerian anti-drug authorities have detained 20 Filipino seafarers after recovering 20 kilograms of high-grade cocaine from a Panama-registered vessel at Lagos’s main port. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) stated the cocaine was hidden beneath coal cargo. Investigations are ongoing as the crew is questioned about the ship’s route.
The International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN) has partnered with the National Maritime Polytechnic (NMP) to enhance welfare support for Filipino seafarers. This collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding, aims to improve seafarer wellbeing, share anonymized helpline data, and strengthen maritime research in the Philippines.
On Wednesday, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) assured deported Filipino seafarers of support and pledged to raise their issues with US officials. The seafarers, expelled under allegations of discrimination and due process violations, requested a diplomatic protest. The DFA will collaborate with relevant agencies to investigate and provide assistance.
Thirty-two Filipino seafarers have been rescued from an abusive employer in Fiji by the Department of Migrant Workers and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration. They endured mistreatment, including delayed wages and physical abuse. Upon returning to the Philippines, they received financial assistance and support services to help them rebuild their lives.
Ten Filipino seafarers, recently attacked by Houthi rebels in the Gulf of Aden, will receive support from the Department of Migrant Workers upon their arrival in Manila. DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac announced assistance in securing new employment, along with medical services and psychological counseling to aid their recovery.
On September 14, a significant protest occurred outside the Baltimore cruise terminal, opposing the detention and deportation of four seafarers accused of possessing child pornography. Organized by a Filipino community group, demonstrators rallied for the rights of seafarers, expressing concerns about unjust deportations and calling for accountability from relevant authorities.
Filipino seafarers face ongoing abandonment and abuse, often accepting these as norms due to fear of job loss. At the International Conference on Seafarers’ Human Rights, Captain Jasmin Labarda emphasized that many remain silent, fearing disbelief or retaliation. The Manila Declaration seeks to uphold maritime workers’ rights and enhance accountability.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) revealed that Filipino seafarers deported from the U.S. for alleged child pornography offenses were specifically targeted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents. DMW Undersecretary Bernard Olalia emphasized that only identified individuals faced scrutiny, raising concerns about due process and consular representation rights.
Seafarers are urged to explore careers in the offshore industry, particularly as demand for dynamic positioning (DP) professionals grows with expanding offshore wind projects. Magsaysay People Resources Corp. president Marlon Roño emphasizes attractive salaries and shorter contracts, making this sector appealing compared to traditional shipping roles.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed that the nine Filipino crew members of the MV Eternity C, held by Houthi rebels, are in good condition and maintaining contact with their families. DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac emphasized ongoing collaboration with foreign governments to monitor their welfare and facilitate their release.
The Department of Migrant Workers confirmed that nine Filipino crew members from the MV Eternity C are held by Houthi rebels in Yemen. Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac stated they are coordinating with the Department of Foreign Affairs to ensure the seafarers’ safe release following the vessel’s attack and sinking on July 7.
Wilhelmsen Ships Service has launched the AimZero campaign to reduce hot work accidents in the maritime industry, focusing on Filipino seafarers. The initiative emphasizes improved training, certified equipment, and a safety-first mindset. With support from influential seafarers, AimZero aims to empower crews to foster a safer future at sea.
