All 17 Filipino seafarers who were aboard the MV Magic Seas—which came under attack by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea—have safely returned to the Philippines and received full government support, following directives from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed that the repatriation was carried out in two batches: six seafarers arrived on July 11, and the remaining 11 were welcomed home at NAIA Terminal 3 on the night of July 12.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, along with DMW officials, personally received the second batch of repatriates. In an emotional homecoming, Secretary Cacdac lauded the crew’s bravery, calling them “magaling” and “magigiting” for staying strong amid danger.
“May AKSYON FUND tayo para magbigay ng tulong at suporta sa inyo, pero hindi ’yan ang pinakamahalaga. Ang mahalaga ay nakauwi kayo ng ligtas,” he told the seafarers.
He further emphasized that the repatriates would benefit from a comprehensive reintegration program guided by a whole-of-government approach. This includes immediate financial aid, medical examinations, mental health support, and psychosocial counseling.
The successful repatriation was the result of swift collaboration between the DMW, Department of Foreign Affairs, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Migrant Workers Offices, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), MIAA Medical Team, and the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
Secretary Cacdac extended special thanks to DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian for his agency’s contributions.
In heartfelt words, one of the seafarers said, “Maraming salamat po sa inyong malasakit at mabilis na pagtugon.”