All the 23 Filipino seafarers on board a bulk carrier in the Red Sea were safe after three missiles launched by Houthi rebels hit the ship on Wednesday, Aug. 21, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said.
DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said that 23 of the 25 crew members of the MT Sounion are Filipinos, with the remaining two, including the captain, are Russians.
“The ship sustained engine damage from three missile strikes, resulting in some water intake, but it did not sink. It is currently drifting,” Cacdac said.
He noted that the vessel is drifting west of the Yemeni port of Hodeidah.
Cacdac confirmed that he is in contact with one of the seafarers and assured the public that all crew members are safe and that the vessel has adequate supplies.
“Given the circumstances, they are understandably anxious and urgently requesting evacuation,” Cacdac added.
He also mentioned that a rescue attempt by naval forces is planned for Thursday, although the identities of the involved nations' forces have not been disclosed due to security concerns.
The DMW Secretary emphasized that the agency will assist in repatriating the seafarers once they are safe and will provide additional financial support upon their return to the Philippines.
“Upon their return, we will offer them financial assistance to facilitate their transition and recovery,” Cacdac said.