Manila: The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is closely monitoring Filipino seafarers, including a missing crew member, amid the escalating tensions in the Middle East.

According to Philippines News Agency, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac stated that the DMW is keeping track of approximately 6,300 Filipino seafarers on ships navigating the high-risk areas in the Middle East. Cacdac emphasized the department's awareness of the situation and noted that DMW-OWWA teams have reached out to the missing crew member's family, expressing hope for a positive outcome from the ongoing search and rescue efforts led by the Omani Navy.

The DMW is focusing on three ships currently anchored in the Gulf of Oman, the Persian Gulf, and the Strait of Hormuz. Cacdac mentioned that the agency is actively gathering information and verifying figures from Filipino crew members through group chats and coordination with manning agencies and ship owners.

On Sunday, Cacdac announced through a Facebook post the issuance of DMW Advisory No. 11, series of 2026. This advisory aligns with the Warlike Operations Area Committee (WOAC) of the International Bargaining Forum (IBF), designating the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Gulf of Oman as "Warlike Operations Areas." The IBF, established in 2003, facilitates negotiations between maritime employers and seafarers' unions to set industry standards for high-risk areas.

Cacdac highlighted that crew members have the "right to refuse sailing" to these designated areas. Additionally, increased security measures must be implemented by shipowners, and compensation for families in the event of death or disability is doubled. Contingency plans are in place for Overseas Filipino Workers in conflict zones, reinforcing the government's commitment to their safety and welfare.