DMW confirms all Pinoy seafarers are safe after Gulf of Aden attack
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has confirmed that all 12 Filipino crew members aboard a Dutch-flagged cargo vessel were accounted for and are safe following a missile attack in the Gulf of Aden on Monday, September 29. The agency said it immediately coordinated with the vessel’s management upon learning of the incident and the subsequent fire that damaged the ship.
The international crew on the vessel includes sailors from Russia, Ukraine, and Sri Lanka, in addition to the 12 Filipinos. DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac explained that the Filipino crew were moved to a secure location together with the international crew while authorities and rescue teams assessed the situation. This proactive step helped prevent further harm as the vessel faced an emergency.
Incident details and current status
Two seafarers were reported injured in the attack on the ship Minervagracht. Medical teams were mobilized, and the two Filipino crew members who sustained injuries remain under medical care—one with minor injuries and the other with more serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Officials noted that ten Filipino crew members, including those with minor injuries, are out of danger and expected to return home soon as part of planned repatriation arrangements.
DMW emphasized that the safety of all crew members remains the priority. The 12 Pinoy seafarers will be transferred again for their scheduled flights home this weekend, in coordination with the shipowners and international partners. Families of the seafarers have been promptly informed and are receiving ongoing support throughout the process.
Medical and social support for the seafarers
Beyond immediate medical care, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has arranged for financial aid and psychosocial counseling, while the Department of Health (DOH) will conduct medical check-ups upon arrival at home. These steps reflect a holistic approach to the well-being of the sailors and their families as they navigate repatriation after the incident.
Government role and ongoing monitoring
Secretary Cacdac reiterated that the DMW will continue to monitor the situation closely and maintain open channels with the shipowners to supervise the safe transfer and repatriation of all affected crew members. He noted that families are being kept informed and reassured, and that government agencies are coordinating across departments to ensure comprehensive support—from medical checks to financial relief—once the seafarers reach Philippine soil.
Implications for Pinoy seafarers and maritime safety
The Gulf of Aden has long been a focal point for maritime security concerns. While this incident underscores the dangers seafarers face, the prompt and organized response by the DMW and partner agencies demonstrates the Philippines’ commitment to protecting its citizens abroad. The safe return of these Pinoy seafarers will likely bring relief to families and may inform future protective measures and international cooperation in navigating high-risk routes.
What comes next
As repatriations proceed, the Philippine government will continue to coordinate with maritime employers, flag states, and international partners to ensure that seafarers receive timely medical care and necessary social support, including counseling and financial assistance. The public is encouraged to follow official updates from the DMW for any new developments regarding this incident and the safe return of all crew members.
