Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac arrived in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia this week to personally oversee the condition of Filipino seafarers stationed in the Persian Gulf.
The visit comes as part of the DMW’s intensified efforts to guarantee the security and welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East.
During his mission, Secretary Cacdac met with the executive leadership of Zamil Offshore, a premier marine and offshore support service provider in the region. The company currently employs 412 Filipino seafarers across its fleet in the Persian Gulf.
Following a comprehensive situational assessment, Zamil Offshore provided the following assurances:
-
Personnel Safety: All 412 Filipino crew members are confirmed safe and accounted for.
-
Logistical Support: Vessels are fully equipped with sufficient food, water, and essential supplies to last for several months.
-
Operational Security: The company maintains rigorous protocols to ensure the continued protection of all crew members under the current regional climate.
Zamil Offshore CEO, Mr. Babak Jabbari, expressed his profound gratitude for the Philippine contingent, citing their indispensable role in the company’s operations.
“The Filipino crew members possess a remarkable level of knowledge, competence, and seamanship,” said Mr. Jabbari. “They are vital to our success, and we are keen on expanding our workforce with more Filipino seafarers in the near future.”
Secretary Cacdac’s swift deployment to Al Khobar underscores the Philippine government’s commitment to “on-the-ground” diplomacy and protection. The DMW continues to maintain a 24/7 monitoring system and remains in close coordination with manning agencies and foreign employers to respond to any developments in the region.
“Our priority is the peace of mind of our seafarers and their families,” Secretary Cacdac stated. “We are heartened by the commitment shown by Zamil Offshore and will continue to work closely with them to ensure our kababoyans remain safe and well-supported.”
