1,161 Filipino seafarers safely exit Persian Gulf amid Middle East tensions

1,161 Filipino seafarers safely exit Persian Gulf amid Middle East tensions
April 23, 2026 https://pco.gov.ph/news_releases/1161-filipino-seafarers-safely-exit-per...

The Philippine government reported that 1,161 Filipino seafarers have safely exited the Persian Gulf following heightened tensions in the Middle East, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure the safety of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

The safe passage of the seafarers was carried out from the first week of April until April 18, according to the latest report submitted to the President by Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac.

In a Palace press briefing on Thursday, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the seafarers were onboard 22 vessels, including five crew ships, that successfully navigated out of the Persian Gulf.

Castro said Cacdac also assured the President that the government continues to monitor the condition of other Filipino seafarers still in the area.

At least 412 seafarers remain in the Persian Gulf but are reported to be safe, in good condition, and adequately supplied with their needs, based on updates from their employer, Zamil Offshore.

As part of ongoing diplomatic efforts, Malacañang also said that Cacdac, together with Ambassador Raymond Balatbat, met with Saudi Arabian Labor Minister Ahmad bin Sulaiman Alrajhi to convey appreciation for the protection extended to Filipino workers and their families.

The meeting also covered areas of mutual interest, including the continued protection and welfare of OFWs.

Cacdac has since returned to the Philippines, accompanied by 16 OFWs from Riyadh and Jeddah. The government is also extending assistance to 30 additional domestic workers, particularly for local transportation and accommodation.

As of the latest count, 7,144 Filipinos have been successfully repatriated from various parts of the Middle East. The administration reiterated that the safety and security of OFWs remain a top priority amid ongoing regional tensions. | PND