The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announced on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, that more than 1,000 Filipino seafarers have successfully exited the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing regional tensions.
Safe Passage for Crew Members
In a statement, the DMW confirmed that approximately 1,200 Filipino crew members have safely left the Persian Gulf after being stranded in the area. "The total Filipino crew of vessels out of the Strait of Hormuz is now close to 1,200," the DMW said.
This figure includes the crew of the vessels Omicron Nikos and Nord, both of which safely departed the Strait of Hormuz on April 25. The DMW noted that 36 Filipino seafarers were on board these vessels, which sail under the Russian and Liberian flags.
Repatriation Efforts Continue
The department also reported that nearly 8,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) have been repatriated from the Middle East. Over the past two months, approximately 7,900 OFWs and their dependents have been safely brought home to their families.
"From March 5 to April 28, 2026, more than 7,900 OFWs and their dependents returned home through the government's repatriation program," the DMW stated. The latest batch consists of nearly 200 OFWs and their dependents.
"On April 28, 191 OFWs from Kuwait successfully returned to the country aboard a commercial flight as part of the government's ongoing repatriation efforts," the DMW added.
Government Assistance Program
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac emphasized that the government will continue to provide comprehensive assistance to affected OFWs. "The assistance program covers onsite support, repatriation, reintegration, and labor diplomacy," Cacdac said.
