8 Pinoy Crew Members Return Home After MV Eternity C Arrival
Eight Filipino Seafarers Return Home After Red Sea attack
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eight Filipino crew members of the MV Eternity C, who were caught in a Houthi rebel attack in the Red Sea, have safely returned to Manila. The seafarers arrived on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to support those affected by the maritime incident.
Safe Return and Government Support
The arrival of the eight seafarers was confirmed by Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro during a press briefing on Thursday. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) reported that the crew members arrived via flight SV870 at NAIA Terminal 1 in Pasay City. They were warmly welcomed by Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac and othre government officials,underscoring the nation’s commitment to its overseas workers.
Thorough Assistance for Returning Seafarers
Upon their arrival, the eight returning crew members were instantly provided with a comprehensive package of assistance and support. This was made possible through the coordinated efforts of the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) – overseas Workers welfare Administration (OWWA) Team and the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
The seafarers received crucial financial aid from various government initiatives, including the DMW’s AKSYON Fund and OWWA’s Emergency Repatriation Fund. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) also contributed to their financial support.
In terms of health and well-being, the crew members were provided with necessary medical care by the Department of Health (DOH). Assistance with airport logistics was facilitated by the New NAIA Infra Corporation (NNIC) under the Department of Transportation (DOTR).
Furthermore,the Technical Education And Skills Development Authority (TESDA),along with other members of the National Reintegration Network,is offering comprehensive reintegration support. This aims to ensure a smooth transition for the seafarers back into their communities and to foster their productive and enduring reintegration with their families.
Background of the MV Eternity C Attack
The MV Eternity C was attacked twice by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea on July 7 and 8. The vessel had a total of 22 crew members on board,consisting of 21 Filipino nationals and one Russian. Reuters had previously reported the presence of three guards on the vessel as well.The DMW had been actively verifying reports concerning the casualties of the attack. last Saturday, the department confirmed it was investigating claims that three Filipino crew members may have been killed during the incident.
Search and Rescue Operations and Confirmed Fatalities
Search and rescue operations were initiated for the remaining 13 Filipino seafarers who were unaccounted for following the attacks. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) had indicated that two Filipino seafarers aboard the MV Eternity C were ”most likely” killed in the incident.
In response to the maritime security crisis and its impact on Filipino seafarers, the DMW has taken decisive action by suspending the license of the principal and manning agency responsible for the 21 Filipino seafarers who were aboard the ill-fated ship. This measure aims to ensure accountability and to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.