As hostilities in the Middle East intensify, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has issued a critical advisory to safeguard Filipino seafarers. The directive, labeled Advisory 9-2026, mandates that all licensed manning agencies (LMAs), principals, and shipowners must provide comprehensive assistance to those onboard vessels and those stranded due to the escalating crisis.
Assistance for Stranded Seafarers
The DMW emphasizes that under no circumstances should seafarers be left unattended or forced to cover expenses from security-related travel disruptions. Stranded individuals must receive essential support, including meals, access to communication, basic necessities, temporary hotel accommodations, transportation, and subsistence provisions. This measure aims to ensure their welfare during uncertain times.
Onboard Support and Safety Protocols
For seafarers currently onboard, agencies are required to confirm the exact location and status of all vessels operating in or near Iranian waters. They must verify the sufficiency of food, water, medical supplies, and other essential provisions. Continuous communication between principals, masters, and crew is mandatory, and contingency plans, such as evacuation or rerouting options, must be activated promptly.
Avoiding High-Risk Areas
The DMW strongly advises against the passage of vessels carrying Filipino seafarers through the Strait of Hormuz and other high-risk maritime chokepoints in the Middle East, unless absolutely necessary and backed by a thorough security risk assessment. Shipowners are encouraged to consider alternative routing to reduce exposure to armed conflicts, missile threats, and maritime security incidents.
Crew Change Operations
Crew change operations must not be conducted in conflict-affected areas, including ports and transit points within the Middle East and nearby regions with heightened security risks, as determined by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). Alternative safe ports and neutral transit hubs should be identified for crew embarkation and disembarkation to minimize risks.
Protecting Seafarers' Rights
The DMW underscores the importance of honoring the rights of Filipino seafarers in high-risk zones. This includes their right to refuse sailing, request re-routing, or decline assignments to dangerous areas without prejudice. These protections are crucial for their safety and well-being.
Reporting and Monitoring
LMAs are directed to submit periodic reports on the conditions and statuses of Filipino seafarers in affected areas until the situation in the Gulf region normalizes. Immediate reporting is required for any incidents, delays, strandings, refusals to sail, or security-related concerns through the OFW Welfare Monitoring System (OWMS) and the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Seabased OFW Concerns (OASSOC).
The DMW's proactive measures highlight the government's commitment to protecting overseas Filipino workers amid global uncertainties, ensuring their safety and rights are upheld during the ongoing Middle East conflict.
