The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is closely monitoring the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) serving as crew members in the Black Sea region following reported drone attacks near Novorossiysk, Russia.
The DMW has confirmed through licensed manning agencies and shipowners that all 17 Filipino crew members of the M/V Anna S and all 22 Filipino crew members of the M/V Elina B are safe, unharmed, and accounted for.
The M/V Elina B came under attack on 17 August 2026 after successfully rescuing the crew of the M/V Anna S.
Additionally, one Filipino seafarer from the M/V Anna S is currently receiving appropriate medical care in a Turkish hospital for an unrelated medical concern and remains in stable condition.
Shipowners, principals, and their port teams have mobilized immediate assistance for the affected crew members. Each of the 17 seafarers from the M/V Anna S has received USD 300 in cash, a mobile phone to reconnect with their families, and essential supplies including clothing, footwear, toiletries, and medications.
Currently, the M/V Elina B is anchored in the Bosphorus Strait, Turkey. The shipowner is coordinating closely with the Philippine Embassy in Turkey and Turkish authorities to expedite travel documents and immigration clearances, paving the way for the crew’s safe disembarkation and eventual repatriation to the Philippines.
“The safety and welfare of our Filipino seafarers remain our foremost concern,” said DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac. “We are closely coordinating with relevant agencies, our Migrant Workers Office, the Philippine Embassy, shipowners, and manning agencies to ensure their safety, provide necessary assistance, and facilitate their safe disembarkation and repatriation. We will continue to closely monitor the situation and support our affected seafarers and their families.”
OFWs facing crises, emergencies, or distress abroad are encouraged to check their eligibility for government support through the DMW AKSYON Fund, a specialized financial and support mechanism operating under the UPLIFT Initiative.
