Around 2,000 Filipino seafarers are among thousands of other nationalities still stranded in the Persian Gulf on various vessels, according to recruitment consultant Emmanuel Geslani. In a statement, Geslani reported that the Filipino crew are on board more than 500 ships that remain unable to leave the region, now subject to an evacuation plan by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Seafarers Await IMO Evacuation Plan
Geslani said, "The 2,000 remaining Filipino seafarers are looking forward to the plan of the IMO to evacuate the seafarers from 500 ships." He noted that the evacuation plan will bring relief not only to the Filipino seafarers but also to the rest of the 11,000 seafarers from various countries who are similarly stranded.
Strict Compliance Required
Geslani emphasized that vessels carrying Filipino seafarers must strictly follow IMO instructions to navigate sea lanes and proceed to their destinations. "The Filipino seafarers vessels will have to strictly follow the instructions of the IMO so that their ships may traverse the sea lanes and be on their way to their destinations," he stated.
DMW Reports Safety of Crew from Attacked Vessels
In a related development, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) reported that 40 Filipino crew members from two vessels attacked by projectiles while passing through the Strait of Hormuz are all safe and unharmed. Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac confirmed in a social media post that the Filipino crewmen of M/V Ever Glory and MV Kiku are safe and accounted for.
Cacdac said, "The two ships recently attacked with projectiles upon exiting the Strait of Hormuz, the M/V Ever Glory and M/V Kiku, have 21 and 19 Filipino seafarers, respectively, who are unharmed." He added that both ships remain seaworthy despite sustaining damage and have since continued their voyages.
DMW to Monitor Situation
The DMW assured continued monitoring of the situation of the Filipino crew on board and pledged to provide assistance to them and their families. "The Department shall continue to monitor the situation of the Filcrew on board and provide assistance to them and their families," Cacdac said.
