Thirteen Filipino seafarers from the cargo vessel M/V MSC Sariska V arrived safely at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 yesterday afternoon aboard Philippine Airlines Flight PR 301. Their emotional homecoming coincides with the nation’s celebration of its 128th Independence Day.
The repatriation follows an incident on June 1, 2026, when the vessel was struck by projectiles while departing the Port of Umm Qasr, Iraq.
Iraqi authorities acted swiftly to evacuate the crew, ensuring all 13 Filipino nationals were completely unharmed. Their secure and prompt journey back to the Philippines was made possible through the intensive, coordinated efforts of the shipowner, the licensed manning agency (LMA), and the Philippine Embassy in Iraq.
Upon touching down in Manila, the crew was met by a comprehensive inter-agency support team to ensure their immediate well-being and comfort.
The reception network included:
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The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) & Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA): Provided immediate financial assistance and structural support.
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Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) Medical Team: Conducted on-site health evaluations.
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New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation (NNIC) & Licensed Manning Agency: Facilitated seamless airport assistance and arranged onward travel logistics for the crew members returning to their respective home provinces.
To guarantee a smooth transition and prioritize the crew’s mental and physical health, the manning agency is currently providing temporary hotel accommodations for the seafarers. Comprehensive medical checkups and psychosocial counseling sessions are scheduled to take place today, June 13, 2026, to help the crew process the trauma of the incident.
“The safety and well-being of our global maritime heroes remain our highest priority. We extend our deepest gratitude to the Iraqi authorities and our local and international partners who worked tirelessly to bring our kababayans home safely, just in time for Independence Day.”
