Eighty-one Filipino seafarers are safe after their four vessels successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
Details of the Passage
The vessels, MV Lyng Trader, MV Western Doncaster, MV Vivian Trader, and MV Eva Fuji, crossed the strait between June 24 and July 1. Most of the seafarers have resumed their duties, while others are taking the chance to reunite with their families.
All 81 Filipino seafarers aboard the four vessels are safe. Most have resumed their regular seafaring duties, while others have taken the opportunity to return home to their families.
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
Despite this positive development, approximately 3,000 Filipino seafarers remain stranded on nearly 400 ships in the Persian Gulf due to ongoing military tensions between the United States and Iran.
International Cooperation in Crisis
The DFA acknowledged the significant efforts of the United Nations and the International Maritime Organization in facilitating safe passage for seafarers. Their evacuation framework has enabled the safe transit of 136 vessels and nearly 2,900 seafarers from the conflict zone.
However, evacuation operations were halted after a temporary ceasefire between Iran and the U.S. expired, leaving many Filipino seafarers still in precarious situations.
Ongoing Monitoring and Support
The DFA is actively monitoring the situation, emphasizing its commitment to the safety of all stranded seafarers and their eventual return home.