In a strong reiteration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure the paramount safety of Filipino seafarers, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is once again urging shipowners and licensed manning agencies (LMAs) to divert their vessels away from the high-risk areas of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
Following recent attacks in the Red Sea, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac underscored key provisions of Department Order No. 1, Series of 2024. This order is specifically designed to protect Filipino seafarers amidst the escalating incidents of hijacking and armed violence targeting ships in these volatile regions.
“We asked shipowners carrying Filipino seafarers to please divert your voyages,” Secretary Cacdac emphasized. “It is not enough to just say we are taking the necessary safety precautions; the best way to spare our seafarers is to avoid the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.”
Secretary Cacdac further urged shipowners and manning agencies to report the scheduled passage of ships and the Filipino seafarers on board through the DMW’s welfare monitoring system. This includes providing information on any deployment or knowledge of scheduled passages through the Red Sea or the Gulf of Aden.
“Failure to report such a significant event will result in the imposition of sanctions under the DMW rules and regulations upon the manning agent and the principal,” he warned. “The Department will not hesitate to take firm and lawful action against those who compromise the safety of our seafarers. We owe them protection, not promises.”
The DMW is actively monitoring developments in the region and collaborating with other concerned agencies to coordinate support for seafarers and their families. The Department has already initiated direct outreach to affected families through phone calls and Zoom meetings, ensuring they receive necessary assistance and updates.
“President Marcos has directed us to take a people-first approach—to make sure every Filipino seafarer is accounted for and that their families are given the attention and care they deserve,” Secretary Cacdac concluded.
