The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) successfully facilitated the repatriation of 22 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who returned to Manila on August 10, 2026, following drone strike incidents involving their respective vessels.
The group consisted of 14 crew members from the M/V Acheloos and eight from the M/V Else. The vessels were targeted in separate incidents within the Persian Gulf/Strait of Hormuz and the Black Sea, respectively. The seafarers arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 via Qatar Airways flight QR932 and Turkish Airlines flight TK084.
Upon their arrival, the seafarers were met by OIC-Assistant Secretary for Sea-based OFW Concerns Augusto San Diego III, alongside representatives from OWWA and the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) Medical Team. The DMW and OWWA provided immediate airport and financial assistance, while the MIAA team conducted mandatory initial health screenings.
“On behalf of our government, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, we are glad that you have returned home safely and soundly,” said OIC-Assistant Secretary San Diego. “We remain fully committed to supporting your healing and recovery as you reunite with your loved ones.”
Expressing gratitude for the government’s intervention, one of the repatriated seafarers remarked, “We are very thankful for your help and your warm welcome; it gives us comfort to know that our country cares for us.”
Representatives from Intercrew Philippines Agency, Inc. and Scanmar Maritime Services, Inc. were also on-site to assist their respective crew members. The DMW and OWWA have directed both manning agencies to ensure the immediate provision of comprehensive physical and psychological evaluations, as well as necessary debriefing sessions. Furthermore, the agencies have been mandated to ensure that the seafarers receive all applicable benefits and compensation associated with their repatriation.
The DMW continues to monitor the status of the seafarers and remains in coordination with relevant stakeholders to ensure their full reintegration and well-being.
