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.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is investigating shipowners and recruitment agencies for placing Filipino seafarers in dangerous areas, particularly the Strait of Hormuz and Black Sea. Following the attack on the MT Sidr, which resulted in fatalities, DMW emphasizes enforcing regulations to protect seafarers’ rights and safety.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has established the Maritime Labor Affairs Office (MLAO) to enhance support for Filipino seafarers. This initiative, detailed in Administrative Order No. 283, includes legal assistance, dispute resolution, and educational resources, ensuring comprehensive support for maritime workers throughout their careers at sea.
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.
Oman confirmed the evacuation of 16 crew members from the Saudi tanker Sidr, attacked in the Strait of Hormuz. The assault, attributed to Iran, resulted in the deaths of two Filipino seafarers. With seven crew members still unaccounted for, maritime security concerns in the region have intensified significantly.
Ten Filipino seafarers who declined to board the M/V Dema M due to security concerns in the Strait of Hormuz have safely returned to the Philippines. They were welcomed at Ninoy Aquino International Airport by DMW officials, who emphasized support for their decision and the government’s commitment to ensuring their safety.
Philippine senators are urging the Department of Migrant Workers to prioritize the safety of Filipino seafarers after two crew members died in an attack on a Saudi-flagged oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. They stress the need for enhanced safety protocols and immediate support for affected families amid ongoing regional conflicts.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has instructed relevant agencies to provide support to the families of two Filipino seafarers who tragically died when a Saudi Arabian oil tanker was struck by projectiles near the Strait of Hormuz. The government is committed to offering necessary assistance, benefits, and compensation.
Two Filipino seafarers tragically lost their lives in a security incident involving their vessel, the SIDR, in the Strait of Hormuz on September 1. Saudi Arabian shipping company Bahri confirmed the news, expressing deep sorrow while providing support to the victims’ families and emphasizing its commitment to safety and security.
Global labor officials and European diplomats are pressing Philippine authorities to strengthen maritime protections for seafarers, highlighting existing enforcement failures. During a forum marking the 20th anniversary of the Maritime Labour Convention, experts emphasized the need for effective implementation of legal frameworks to safeguard Filipino seafarers from mistreatment and wage theft.
The Department of Migrant Workers, led by Assistant Secretary Augusto San Diego III, welcomed returning seafarers who survived a missile attack on their vessel in Ukraine. Supported by the AKSYON Fund, they received assistance for their immediate needs. San Diego emphasized seafarers’ rights to refuse unsafe conditions and highlighted ongoing risks in conflict zones.
The Department of Migrant Workers honored Filipino seafarer Able-Bodied Seaman Pagunsan, whose remains were repatriated from Romania on August 28. Tragically killed in a drone attack while aboard the M/V Venturo, his sacrifice was recognized by officials during a solemn tribute at Loyola Memorial Park, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety for seafarers.
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.
