Thirteen Filipino seafarers have safely returned to the country after escaping an attack on their vessel at the Port of Umm Qasr in Iraq on June 1, 2026.
In a statement, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announced that the 13 crew members of M/V MSC Sariska V arrived safely at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 on Friday aboard Philippine Airlines Flight PR 301.
"Thirteen Filipino seafarers from the M/V MSC Sariska V arrived safely just in time for the nation's Independence Day celebration," the DMW said.
On June 1, the vessel was hit by projectiles (explosives or bullets) while preparing to depart from the Port of Umm Qasr.
Iraqi authorities quickly evacuated the crew, ensuring that none of the 13 Filipinos were injured or harmed.
According to the DMW, the 13 seamen received immediate assistance at the airport, including medical check-ups, financial support, and aid for their return to their respective provinces. The crew's manning agency also provided temporary hotel accommodation and will facilitate comprehensive medical and psychosocial counseling sessions.
