The last three Filipino crew members of the MV Epaminondas have safely returned to the Philippines, landing at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 on July 6, 2026, via Qatar Airways. This marks the completion of the repatriation of all ten Filipino seafarers who were earlier withheld by Iranian military authorities.
Repatriation Details
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announced that the ten Filipino crew members of the vessel have been successfully brought home. The final three seafarers arrived on Monday, while the other seven were repatriated last month. The DMW stated, "The remaining three Filipino crew members of MV Epaminondas are finally home... The three were the last Filipino crew members to be granted clearance by Iranian military authorities."
Background of the Incident
The MV Epaminondas was involved in a security incident on April 22 while attempting to exit the Persian Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz. Following the incident, replacement crew members from Russia, Sri Lanka, and Ukraine temporarily took over the vessel's operations.
Support and Assistance
Upon their arrival, the Filipino seafarers received financial and medical assistance from the DMW. Their agency provided temporary hotel accommodation. The crew members are scheduled to undergo further medical and psychosocial assessments to support their recovery and well-being after their difficult experience. They were welcomed by their families, representatives of the DMW, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), and officials of their licensed manning agency.
