The Philippines Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is now studying a policy prohibiting vessels from sailing the Red Sea amid recent incidents involving Filipino seafarers being attacked by Houthi rebels.
DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac explained that they cannot yet determine a timeline for the review, as consultations with their partners are still necessary. A detailed study of the situation with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is also required, he noted.
While an outright ban on sailing in the Red Sea is not feasible due to the need to maintain commerce, Cacdac stated that Filipino seafarers have been advised to assert their right to refuse sailing in the area. He mentioned that ships carrying Filipino seafarers have been directed to divert, and the right to refuse sailing, declared in partnership with the International Bargaining Forum, must be honored.
Houthi rebel groups attacked 17 Filipino seafarers onboard the Galaxy Leader on November 11 and 13 others onboard the True Confidence on March 11, resulting in two fatalities.
Most recently, on Wednesday, 22 Filipino seafarers onboard the MV Tutor were attacked by the same group. While 21 were rescued, one remains missing.
Cacdac confirmed that they are closely coordinating with the DFA to ensure the safety of the affected Filipino seafarers. So far, around 78 Filipino seafarers have exercised their right to refuse sailing through identified war-like areas, according to Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac.
