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Advocates Philippines
Filipino Seamen Deployment Restricted In Global Hotspots After Houthi Attack
Photo credit: PCO
In the wake of the recent Houthi attack on the Barbados-flagged bulk carrier M/V True Confidence, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), and concerned manning agencies have announced a significant reduction in the deployment of Filipino seafarers to ships navigating known global hotspots. DFA Undersecretary Eduardo De Vega disclosed this decision on Tuesday, emphasizing the need to safeguard Filipino seamen in the face of escalating risks.
The Houthi attack on March 6 targeted the M/V True Confidence while it sailed through the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, resulting in the tragic deaths of two Filipino seamen and injuries to several others. The vessel, which had 15 Filipino crew members on board, is currently the focal point of recovery efforts to retrieve the remains of the deceased seafarers.
De Vega underscored that the directive to limit the deployment of Filipino seafarers stemmed from the alarming frequency of Houthi attacks on ships in the region. The tragic incident on March 6 served as a stark reminder of the dangers posed to seafarers navigating through these perilous waters.
The DFA Undersecretary also highlighted that manning agencies are actively complying with the government's directive to restrict the presence of Filipino seafarers in high-risk areas. This measure aims to provide seafarers with the option to refuse deployment, thereby prioritizing their safety and well-being.
Furthermore, De Vega shared that the DMW had issued an advisory on February 16, categorizing certain areas as "warlike and high-risk." In these designated zones, Filipino seafarers are entitled to refuse sailing with the assurance of repatriation at the company's expense and compensation equivalent to two months' basic wage. Those choosing to continue their service in these areas will receive bonuses or double compensation, including provisions for death and disability benefits.
The Houthi attack on March 6 targeted the M/V True Confidence while it sailed through the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, resulting in the tragic deaths of two Filipino seamen and injuries to several others. The vessel, which had 15 Filipino crew members on board, is currently the focal point of recovery efforts to retrieve the remains of the deceased seafarers.
De Vega underscored that the directive to limit the deployment of Filipino seafarers stemmed from the alarming frequency of Houthi attacks on ships in the region. The tragic incident on March 6 served as a stark reminder of the dangers posed to seafarers navigating through these perilous waters.
The DFA Undersecretary also highlighted that manning agencies are actively complying with the government's directive to restrict the presence of Filipino seafarers in high-risk areas. This measure aims to provide seafarers with the option to refuse deployment, thereby prioritizing their safety and well-being.
Furthermore, De Vega shared that the DMW had issued an advisory on February 16, categorizing certain areas as "warlike and high-risk." In these designated zones, Filipino seafarers are entitled to refuse sailing with the assurance of repatriation at the company's expense and compensation equivalent to two months' basic wage. Those choosing to continue their service in these areas will receive bonuses or double compensation, including provisions for death and disability benefits.
Mar 12, 2024
