Manila: The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed that at least seven Filipino seafarers were injured after the Malta-flagged container vessel MV San Antonio was hit by a drone attack in the Strait of Hormuz on May 5.
According to Philippines News Agency, in a press briefing at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 2 on Thursday, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac stated that the seven Filipinos were among the eight crew members injured when the ship was struck by an Iranian drone. This clarified earlier international reports that described the vessel as French-flagged.
Cacdac emphasized, "Based on our records, it is a Maltese, Malta-flagged ship, and ang situation is na-attack siya (the situation is that it was attacked) around May 5. As per report, it was a drone attack. It was an Iranian drone attack that hit the ship."
He further explained that the Filipino seafarers are alive and receiving treatment in an undisclosed hospital. Of the seven crew, four suffered minor injuries, while three are being treated in the intensive care unit (ICU) due to more serious injuries, which are not life-threatening. The injuries were mainly due to burns and gas inhalation following the explosion caused by the drone strike.
Cacdac assured that the relevant embassy and labor attache, along with the migrant workers office, are closely monitoring the situation of the injured seafarers. Philippine embassy and labor officials have already coordinated with hospital authorities and are in communication with the seafarers under medical supervision. The government plans to visit and assist them in coordination with the host government.
Additionally, Cacdac reported that over 1,400 Filipino seafarers have safely exited the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters amid regional tensions in the Middle East. In the past week, four vessels carrying approximately 92 Filipino crew members left the area.
Regarding crew replacement policy, Cacdac explained that during the early stage of the conflict, the government restricted the replacement of Filipino seafarers in the Persian Gulf to prevent crews from being stranded under risky conditions. However, following a ceasefire, this policy has been relaxed to allow replacement for those whose contracts are completed and those experiencing fatigue or post-traumatic stress.
