Jude Prado Pagunsan, a seafarer from Antique, was killed in a drone attack on the MV Venturo at the Port of Pivdennyi, Ukraine. This incident marks a tragic event amid the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Pagunsan's death is one of two fatalities reported from the attack, which also injured 12 other crew members and left one person missing. His family confirmed the news, expressing deep sorrow over the loss.
Just days before his death, Pagunsan had shared a Facebook post expressing solidarity with the crew of another vessel that had been struck by drones in Ukraine. His post read, "Sail in peace, sirs!"
Family's Heartbreaking Plea
You were only working to provide for us. Why did this have to happen to you? We are still waiting for you to come home. Your children keep asking when their father will return.
Glenn Ates, Wife
Pagunsan's wife, Glenn Ates, shared her heartbreak on social media, revealing that their children are waiting for their father's return. The family is devastated and has reached out to the Philippine government for help in retrieving his remains.
Relatives are urging authorities to expedite the recovery process. Nehj Tesa, Pagunsan's sister-in-law, expressed the family's desperation for information and assistance.
- Family seeks government support for body recovery.
- Antique Provincial Board Member visits family to offer assistance.
- DMW confirms safety of other Filipino crew members.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) reported that the recent drone attacks in the Black Sea impacted nine commercial vessels with 139 Filipino seafarers on board. While 124 crew members are confirmed safe, the DMW is coordinating medical treatment and repatriation for the injured.
This incident raises concerns about the safety of Filipino seafarers, who continue to serve in conflict zones. Maritime authorities and government agencies are urged to enhance protective measures for workers in high-risk regions.