DMW extends assistance to 2 seafarers freed from pirate captivity in Haiti

DMW extends assistance to 2 seafarers freed from pirate captivity in Haiti
Martin Sadongdong Jun 20, 2025 https://mb.com.ph/2025/06/20/dmw-extends-assistance-to-2-seafarers-freed...

Two seafarers who returned to the country after being rescued from pirate captivity in Haiti have received financial assistance from the government, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) disclosed Friday, June 20.

DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac met with the two crew members of MV Century Royal on June 19, as well as the wives of their fellow seafarers and representatives from their concerned manning agency, to discuss ways in coping with the traumatic ordeal they experienced.

“The President was very glad to hear of your safe release. His words were, ‘Very good.’ Nandito ang government (The government is here), rest assured you will be supported and will be provided assistance for your recovery and reintegration,” Cacdac told the seafarers during their meeting on June 19.

The DMW said it provided the two seafarers P75,000 each under the “AKSYON Fund”. Their identities were withheld for their safety.
Additional support will also be extended to their families, particularly their children, to ensure their full recovery, the DMW added.

The two seafarers were among the crew members of the Panama-flagged bulker who were held hostage by Haitian pirates in the capital city of Port-au-Prince in April.
They arrived in the country last May 23 and June 17 after being rescued.

“In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to assist overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in distress and ensure their reintegration, the DMW is closely coordinating with the seafarers’ manning agency to ensure their full recovery and provide necessary support to them,” Cacdac said.