The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Wednesday, Nov. 22, assured that families of the 17 Filipino seafarers, who were reportedly held hostage by Houthi rebels, will receive its "fullest support and assistance."
"The DMW is deeply concerned about this unfortunate incident and has communicated with and assured all the families of the seafarers of our fullest support and assistance. As per records of the department, there are 17 Filipino seafarers listed as crew members of the vessel," it said in a statement posted on its official Facebook page.
The DMW said it is now working with the officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the registered shipping and manning agency of the cargo vessel "to monitor the safety and well-being" of the 17 Filipino seafarers.
The agency assured that the Filipino seafarers would return home to the country safely.
"The DMW shall provide information with respect to developments as these unfold. Let us keep praying for the safety and well-being of our Filipino seafarers," it furthered.
The DFA first confirmed that 17 Filipino seafarers were among the 25 held hostages after Yemen's Houthi rebels hijacked a cargo ship Galaxy Leader in the Red Sea.
In a message to the media, DFA Spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza said the foreign affairs department is now reaching out to appropriate governments, as well as local government agencies about the incident.
