All 17 Filipino crew members of the cargo vessel MV Magic Seas, which was recently attacked by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea, have safely returned to the Philippines and are now under the care of the government.
According to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), six seafarers arrived on July 11, followed by the remaining 11 on July 13. The latter group was welcomed by Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac and DMW officials at NAIA Terminal 3.
Cacdac commended the seafarers for their courage during the attack. “Magaling kayo at magigiting… Ang mahalaga ay nakauwi kayo ng ligtas,” he told them, emphasizing that while government financial assistance is available through the AKSYON Fund, their safety remains the top priority.
The DMW will provide each repatriated seafarer with comprehensive medical support, including physical check-ups, mental health services, and psychosocial counseling.
The successful repatriation was made possible through coordinated efforts among the DMW, Department of Foreign Affairs, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, DSWD, DOH, the MIAA Medical Team, Department of Transportation, and various Migrant Workers Offices abroad.
Cacdac also expressed gratitude to DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian for his agency’s quick and compassionate response.