OFW Party List Representative Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino appeals for government’s urgent and stronger actions to facilitate the release the malaria stricken Filipino seafarers held hostage by the Houthi rebels.
Magsino made the appeal after receiving reports that the Filipino crew members of MV Galaxy Leader are now being treated in Yemen due to malaria.
The 17 Filipino seamen were part of the 25-man crew of MV Galaxy who were held captive by Houthi rebels. The Houthi rebels have been attacking ships plying the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
Earlier, Magsino called the host countries to protect not only Filipino seafarers, but all those plying to dangerous seas.
“These Filipino seafarers and other crew members are just working to help their families. They did not create any problems, nor do they want to harm others. Like any other Overseas Filipino Worker who love their families, they only went abroad to provide for their loved ones,” said Magsino.
Honorary Consul to Yemen Mohammad Saleh al-Jamal sent a memorandum to President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. confirming that several Filipino crew members were manifesting malaria symptoms.
President Marcos Jr requested Sana’a authorities to release the Filipino seamen for humanitarian reasons.
Magsino also cited humanitarian reasons to release these Filipino seafarers.
“I join the President on his appeal, please release the Filipino seafarers, especially now that they need medical care,” Magsino said.
The Department of Foreign Affairs said that Sana’a government sent specialized doctors to the vessel to carry out necessary medical procedures. But DFA added that on the release of the Filipino seafarers, the Sana’a government responded by saying it depends on the external decisions.
OFW Party List Rep. Magsino will be coordinating with DFA and other major agencies in negotiations and discussion for the possible release of the Filipino seafarers.
“I am offering the OFW PL to be of help and be a part of ensuring our Filipino seafarers will be released. We are not abandoning you. The government will do everything to ensure you will return home safe,” she said.
Sana’a government told DFA they will discuss the request with specialists and the presidency of the Yemeni republic.
Sana’a is the capital and the largest city of Yemen. It controls the Houthis.
