The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) held a dialogue with ten Filipino seafarers who were recently repatriated following the bombing of the MV Minervagracht in the Gulf of Aden on September 29. The meeting, led by Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac alongside Assistant Secretary Jerome T. Pampolina and Director Augusto San Diego, aimed to ensure continued support for the affected crew and investigate possible violations by their manning agency.

During the discussion, the seafarers shared their harrowing experience and raised concerns about potential breaches of deployment and cross-sailing regulations. These rules, outlined in Department Order No. 03, Series of 2024, prohibit the deployment of Filipino seafarers to vessels navigating war-like or high-risk maritime zones.

Secretary Cacdac assured the crew that the DMW is conducting a thorough investigation to determine the agency’s accountability. If found in violation, the manning agency could face penalties, including suspension or revocation of accreditation, to safeguard the welfare of other Filipino seafarers.

Of the twelve Filipino crew members aboard the vessel, ten have safely returned to the Philippines and each received P75,000 in financial aid from the DMW AKSYON Fund. One crew member remains under medical care in Manila, while the remains of another are expected to arrive in the country within the week.

“We will hold accountable those who violate our policies. Filipino seafarers risk their lives to keep maritime trade alive and safe—discipline and protection must be non-negotiable,” said Secretary Cacdac.