THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed on Monday that two Filipino seafarers have been killed and 12 others injured amid ongoing drone strikes targeting commercial vessels in the Black Sea.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac made the announcement during a press briefing, noting that one fatality occurred on July 6, while the second was recorded this past Sunday, July 19. One seafarer remains unaccounted for as of the latest update.
Cacdac described the situation in the region as increasingly volatile, with attacks largely aimed at bulk carriers and oil tankers near ports, anchorages, or shortly after departure. “Most ships sustained damage from unmanned aerial vehicle or drone attacks while alongside, at anchorage, or shortly after leaving port,” he explained. The latest incident cited by international reports involved a Russian strike on an international cargo vessel off Odesa, which Ukrainian officials said killed at least five crew members.
A total of 139 Filipino seafarers were aboard the nine vessels affected by these recent attacks. Of this number, 124 are safe and unharmed; four of the injured have already been repatriated to the Philippines, while the remaining eight are receiving medical care and assistance overseas. The DMW is coordinating closely with manning agencies to provide support, updates, and necessary aid to the families of all affected crew members.
The agency added that it is also reviewing the responsibility of the recruitment and manning agencies involved, with appropriate penalties to be imposed if negligence is found. Authorities continue to monitor developments in the area and are working to ensure the safety and welfare of all Filipino seafarers deployed in conflict‑affected zones.
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