Manila: The number of Filipino seafarers killed in the escalation of attacks in the Northern Black Sea has climbed to three, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) announced Saturday. DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac stated that the department is actively coordinating with the ship owner and relevant agencies to expedite the repatriation of the deceased to the Philippines.

According to Philippines News Agency, Cacdac personally visited the families of the three deceased seafarers, as well as the family of one who remains missing. He conveyed the President's sympathies and assured them of full support and assistance as directed by the President. The DMW data reveals that at least 17 commercial vessels staffed by 236 Filipino seafarers were struck by recent drone and missile attacks near Ukrainian ports. Among these, three seafarers have been confirmed dead, 15 have sustained injuries, and one is still unaccounted for.

Cacdac reported that 89 Filipinos, including nine of the injured, have returned home, with repatriation efforts ongoing. Recently, five crew members from the Antigua-flagged bulk carrier M/V Venturo arrived in Manila, and 13 more are expected to return on Saturday. The remaining seafarers have been relocated to various locations including mainland Ukraine, Romania, Greece, and Turkey.

The UN has warned the Security Council that increased hostilities in Ukraine and systematic attacks on Black Sea ports are causing significant civilian casualties, disrupting maritime trade, and posing a threat to global food security. Previously, the UN reported that approximately 170 civilians have died and over 1,000 have been injured across Ukraine due to intensified aerial attacks.