Manila, Philippines — On Sunday, August 30, a group of 22 Filipino seafarers caught in a missile attack in Ukraine have successfully and safely returned to the Philippines.
It can be recalled that on August 19, Liberia-flagged bulk carrier M/V Antonia S was hit by a missile-attack while it was decked at Chornomorsk, Ukraine.
Before repatriation, the group was evacuated and stayed at a designated shelter in Chornomorsk Port.
The Filipino captain thanked the warning of the foreign security officer in the vessel regarding the upcoming attack, that allowed them to evacuate to the upper deck and secure themselves before the vessel was hit.
Upon returning to Manila, the group was welcomed by officials of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and Manila International Airport Authority Medical Team which provided them immediate medical assistance.
They also underwent to immediate medical at psychological assessments following the traumatic incident.
Following this, DMW reminded Filipino seafarers to exercise their rights to refuse sail when there serious threats to their safety.
Likewise, DMW reminded licensed manning agencies to continuously monitor the the safety and welfare of the deployed Filipino seafarers, and ensure that safety precautions and protocols are strictly complied fro all the vessels traveling in the Strait of Hormuz.
OFWs who are in crisis and distressed situations may ask for assistance through the DMW Aksyon Fund by visiting or contacting DMW Central Office or the nearest regional office of the agency, or through their website with the link, https://dmw.gov.ph/contact-us.—Mia Layaguin, Eurotv News