Over 5,600 Filipino seafarers remain stranded on 533 vessels in the Middle East due to the ongoing Gulf crisis. The Department of Migrant Workers reports 4,844 crew members in the Persian Gulf and 819 in the Gulf of Oman, while the DFA confirms Iran’s assurance for safe passage for Philippine-flagged ships.
In a recent Lok Sabha address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the urgent need to facilitate the return of Indian seafarers stranded in the Gulf due to the West Asia crisis. With 778 seafarers reported stranded, families of two missing individuals have appealed for government intervention to locate their loved ones.
The maritime industry faces critical challenges due to the ongoing crisis, particularly regarding human-element liabilities. With around 20,000 seafarers stranded, mental health concerns have risen, necessitating urgent measures for crew welfare. Additionally, repatriation and wage continuation are pressing responsibilities for shipowners amidst halted operations. Addressing these issues is vital.
