10 Filipino seafarers repatriated after vessel attack in Gulf of Aden

10 Filipino seafarers repatriated after vessel attack in Gulf of Aden
Dianne Sampang - October 05, 2025 https://globalnation.inquirer.net/293923/10-filipino-seafarers-repatriat...(direct)&utm_medium=gallery

MANILA, Philippines — Ten Filipino seafarers were safely repatriated on Saturday following a missile attack by Houthi rebels on Netherlands-flagged MV Minervagracht while in the Gulf of Aden, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said on Sunday.

The DMW said that the seafarers arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Saturday and were welcomed by Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, and other DMW officials.

Cacdac assured the seafarers of various forms of assistance, including physical and mental health assessment, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Cacdac also underscored the importance of their safe reunion with their families.

“We will help you in seeking new job opportunities, livelihood, and training. But it is important that you first be reunited with your families,” Cacdac said in a statement.

Aside from this, Cacdac told the seafarers that they will receive their entitled benefits and rights under the seafarers’ contracts.

“Aside from this, the government, through the DMW, will be offering health services, including physical and mental health support and psychosocial counseling, in addition to the help provided by your licensed manning agency,” Cacdac added.

The DMW also shared that the seafarers received financial assistance from the DMW, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, and Department of Social Welfare and Development, as well as training vouchers from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

The DMW earlier reported that two of the 12 Filipino seafarers aboard the vessel were injured from the incident, one with minor injuries and another with “serious but non-life threatening injuries.”
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The DMW deemed the Gulf of Aden as a “high-risk area,” which is located along the Indian Ocean, bordering Yemen and Somalia. The gulf is also considered a vital waterway route for maritime trade. /das