Relief and joy filled the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Saturday night as ten Filipino seafarers returned home safely after surviving a terrifying ship attack in the Gulf of Aden.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed their arrival, with Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac and other government officials personally welcoming the seafarers as they landed at NAIA Terminal 3.
The ordeal began on September 29, when their ship, the Netherlands-flagged MV Minervagracht, came under attack about 120 nautical miles southeast of Aden, Yemen. Reports said the vessel was struck by an unknown projectile, sparking a fire.
All 19 crew members — including Russians, Ukrainians, Filipinos, and Sri Lankans — were rescued. Of the 12 Filipino crew, two suffered injuries, but thankfully, all survived.
Government’s Swift Response
The safe return of the ten seafarers was made possible through the efforts of the Philippine Embassy in Ankara, the Philippine Consulate in Istanbul, Migrant Workers Offices, and their licensed manning agency.
Speaking to the crew, Secretary Cacdac assured them of full government support:
“We will help you recover, find work, have livelihood and training. But for now, what’s most important is that you reunite with your families.”
He also promised that the government would ensure they receive their benefits, rights, and additional assistance — including physical and mental health services, as well as counseling to help them heal from the trauma.
Aid and Assistance
The returning seafarers were given financial assistance from the DMW, OWWA, and DSWD. TESDA also provided training vouchers to help them rebuild their careers. Their manning agency, meanwhile, offered temporary accommodation.
Among those present to welcome the crew were officials from OWWA, DFA, DSWD, MIAA Medical Team, and other support agencies.
A Safe Homecoming
For the seafarers, the night was more than just a homecoming. It was a chance to hold their loved ones again, after facing danger on the high seas.
And for the government, it was a reminder of its duty — to protect and stand by Filipino workers wherever they are in the world.
