The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announced today that it is maintaining a heightened state of monitoring for all maritime vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The proactive measure comes in response to ongoing geopolitical tensions and volatile security conditions in the Middle East, with the primary objective of ensuring the safety, security, and welfare of Filipino seafarers.
As of May 25, 2026, the DMW has tracked a total of 59 commercial vessels—including oil tankers, cargo ships, and container vessels—carrying 1,834 Filipino crew members through the critical waterway during the April to May period alone.
In addition to past transits, the Department is actively tracking 17 more vessels scheduled or projected to cross the Strait of Hormuz today. These incoming vessels carry nearly 300 Filipino maritime workers.
To manage the heightened operational risks, the DMW is sustaining round-the-clock coordination with international shipping companies, licensed manning agencies (LMAs), and relevant government institutions. This collaborative framework ensures the Department receives real-time situational updates, maintains open lines of communication with the crews, and stands ready to execute immediate response and rescue protocols if necessary.
The DMW assures all overseas Filipino maritime workers and their families that comprehensive assistance and support services remain readily available. The Department reaffirms its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and well-being of Filipino seafarers navigating high-risk zones.
