Bristol: Three Filipino seafarers were assaulted while on shore leave in Bristol, England on July 31, leaving one in critical condition in an intensive care unit, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).
According to Philippines News Agency, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac stated in a media interview on Wednesday night that two of the seafarers from the cargo vessel MV Arklow Beacon, who sustained minor injuries, returned to the Philippines on August 9. They received government assistance, including financial aid, physical and psychological checks, and debriefing sessions.
Cacdac explained, "On July 31, unfortunately, we had three crew members whose ship was docked in Bristol, England, and they encountered some elements there that caused them severe pain." He further added that the investigation by UK authorities is ongoing, with several suspects already apprehended. Among the three affected crew members, two have returned home, but one is still in the ICU and in critical condition, prompting close monitoring of the situation.
The Philippine Embassy in London, led by Ambassador Teodoro Locsin Jr., along with DMW labor attaches, are actively monitoring the case and coordinating with UK authorities. Cacdac mentioned that the DMW is assisting the family of the seafarer still in the ICU, facilitating their travel to Bristol to visit the patient. The seafarer's daughter has already arrived in England, and arrangements are being made for his wife to join her.
Cacdac noted that the three Filipinos had gone ashore for their routine shore leave after their ship docked. "It's normal for the ship to dock first and for our countrymen to take on-shore leave or disembark first," he stated. However, the seafarers later encountered individuals in a nearby community who assaulted them.
Authorities are still investigating the motive behind the attack. Cacdac urged patience, stating, "Let's just wait for the investigation results. There are many rumors and speculations, but it appears to be a physical attack, a physical assault on three of our seafarers," adding that it remains unclear whether they were specifically targeted.
