The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has assured the families of the 17 Filipino seafarers who were among those held hostage when Yemeni Houthi rebels seized a marine vessel in the Red Sea.
In a statement, the DMW said they are now coordinating with the Department of Foreign Affairs and the officials of the registered owner of the vessel in regularly checking the condition of the Filipinos.
The DMW is deeply concerned about this unfortunate incident and has communicated with and assured all the families of the seafarers of our fullest support and assistance,” the statement read.
“We are currently working with the Department of Foreign Affairs, as well as officials of the registered shipping and manning agency of the vessel to monitor the safety and well-being of the 17 Filipino seafarers onboard the ship, and to bring them home safely,” it added.
Based on the report, the Houthi rebels seized the ship after they mistook it as owned by an Israeli company.
The ship was on its way to India from Turkey when it was seized by the rebels.
Aside from Filipinos, other crew members are from Bulgaria, Ukraine, Mexico and Romania, according to a report from Kyodo.
“As per records of the department, there are 17 Filipino seafarers listed as crew members of the vessel,” the DMW said.
“The DMW shall provide information with respect to developments as these unfold. Let us keep praying for the safety and well-being of our Filipino seafarers,” it added.