The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) reports that around 3,000 Filipino seafarers are still aboard vessels in the Strait of Hormuz but are safe and have adequate supplies.
According to DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac, around 3,000 Filipino seafarers continue to be aboard ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Despite concerns, Cacdac clarified that these seafarers are not hostages or idle; they are actively serving and continue to receive their benefits and salaries, which are being sent to their families. “Their ships remain seaworthy and capable of sailing safely,” he added, emphasizing that they are not in immediate danger despite the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Persian Gulf region.
Secretary Cacdac further stated that a total of approximately 3,718 Filipino seafarers have already left the area, but there remains a significant number representing around 400 vessels still in the Strait. Recently, two ships carrying 15 Filipino crew members each successfully exited the Strait on July 6 and 7, although they were attacked.
Currently, the passage through the Strait of Hormuz has closed again amid renewed tensions between the United States and Iran, leading to renewed difficulty for maritime transit.
This situation is being closely monitored 24/7 by the DMW in coordination with licensed manning agencies and shipowners to ensure the welfare of Filipino seafarers. There are no reports from official sources indicating any mistreatment or hostage situations involving Filipino crew members so far.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/balitambayan/pinoyabroad/995141/nasa-3k-pinoy-seafarers-stranded-sa-strait-of-hormuz-ayon-sa-dmw/story/