House Speaker Martin Romualdez (Speaker’s office)

House Speaker Martin Romualdez has reasserted the government’s commitment to safeguard the welfare and safety of Filipino seafarers after the Houthi missile attack in Red Sea.

“We will continue to work tirelessly to protect their rights, promote their well-being, and ensure that they are provided with the support and protection they deserve, wherever they may be in the world,” Romualdez said on Sunday, March 10.

“Together, let us continue to uphold the welfare of our Filipino workers worldwide and ensure that they are always safe and protected,” he added.

The statement comes after the report that 10 Filipino seafarers aboard the vessel struck by a missile in the Gulf of Aden are now safe.

“This update brings immense relief not only to their families but to our nation as a whole, as we have been anxiously following the developments of this distressing incident,” the House leader said.

“To our brave seafarers, your safety is of utmost importance to us. We are deeply relieved that you are out of harm's way and are now secure. The courage and strength you have shown in the face of danger are truly admirable, and you embody the resilient spirit of the Filipino people,” he noted.

On Thursday, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed that two Filipinos were among the seafarers killed by a missile attack from Houthi rebels that eventually set fire to the vessel M/V True Confidence.

“While we celebrate the safety of our seafarers, we also remember and mourn the tragic loss of two of our compatriots in this incident,” said Romualdez.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to their families and assure them of our continued support during this difficult time. We are committed to providing them with all the necessary assistance and ensuring that their loved ones' sacrifices are honored and remembered,” he said.

Romualdez expressed his gratitude to the international community, particularly the Indian Navy and the authorities in Djibouti, for their prompt and decisive actions that led to the safety of the ten Filipino seafarers.

He also commended President Marcos, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) for their swift response and comprehensive assistance they continue to provide to the seafarers and their families.