DMW Undersecretary Hans Cacdac assured the public in a television interview that the seafarers have been permitted to contact their families, assuring them of their well-being while onboard the ship.
Cacdac reported that the vessel is still located off the coast of Yemen, and efforts are underway involving certain foreign governments to negotiate and ensure the safe release and return of the 17 seafarers. The DMW continues to monitor the situation closely and collaborate with international entities to facilitate the resolution of this hostage situation.
The Filipino seafarers were part of the crew onboard a cargo vessel seized by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. The total crew complement included individuals from Bulgaria, Ukraine, the Philippines, Mexico, and Romania.
