Manila: The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) visited the families of the two Filipino seafarers killed in separate attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea, assuring them of full government assistance as efforts continue to bring home the victims' remains.
According to Philippines News Agency, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac personally met the family of one of the slain seafarers in Antique on Wednesday before proceeding to visit the second family on Thursday. He expressed the government's solidarity and condolences on behalf of President Bongbong Marcos, promising initial financial assistance and comprehensive support.
Cacdac highlighted that the government is actively coordinating with the Department of Foreign Affairs, shipowner, principal, and licensed manning agencies to expedite the repatriation of the seafarers' remains. He assured the families that their loved ones would be home by next week at the latest.
Efforts are being made to ensure the families are fully informed about the benefits and compensation due under the seafarers' employment contract. Cacdac advised families not to sign any documents without consulting with the DMW and OWWA, emphasizing that any signing should occur in Manila with representatives from both government agencies and the manning company present.
In addition to covering funeral and burial expenses, the DMW and OWWA will assist in repatriating a sibling of one of the deceased seafarers from Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The agencies are also committed to addressing the educational needs of the seafarers' children.
The DMW is currently monitoring 10 vessels carrying Filipino seafarers in the Black Sea, with 138 unharmed seafarers to be repatriated and 12 injured seafarers being monitored. Of these, four have been discharged.
Cacdac also mentioned his intention to visit the family of a missing seafarer, emphasizing ongoing search efforts. He urged shipowners to avoid sending vessels through conflict zones, particularly the Northern Black Sea region, which is designated as high-risk due to escalating conflicts linked to the Russia-Ukraine war.
