Bishop pushes for swift action, justice for OFWs

Bishop pushes for swift action, justice for OFWs | Daily Tribune

A Filipino bishop is urging the Philippine government to seek justice for Filipino seafarers caught in conflict zones in the Red Sea and the Middle East.

In a statement, Antipolo Bishop Ruperto Santos emphasized the importance of acknowledging the lives and sacrifices of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), calling them “the lifeblood of nations.”

“They serve with courage and sacrifice, often hidden from the headlines yet essential to the lifeblood of many nations. We must not allow their suffering to be forgotten, nor their lives lost in silence,” the bishop said.

To ensure the safety of OFWs, Bishop Santos encouraged the government to work with international authorities in securing justice and accountability.

Commenting on the escalating conflict between Israel and Palestine, Santos said immediate repatriation should be made available to Filipinos in danger. He also reminded authorities of the spiritual value of Israel.

“Repatriation should be made available, especially for those who feel unsafe or are exposed to ongoing violence. Let us remember, the Holy Land should be a place of pilgrimage, not peril,” he said.

The bishop’s message follows reports that at least three Filipino crew members of MV Eternity C died after the vessel was attacked by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea.

Vice President Sara Duterte has since extended her sympathies to the victims' families.

“We pray for justice for the three of them, as well as for the safety of their fellow crew members,” Duterte said in a video message.

The Eternity C had 22 crew members — 21 Filipinos and one Russian — when it was attacked on July 6.

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed it is working with the Department of National Defense (DND) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to locate the 13 Filipino seafarers still missing.

DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega earlier reported at least two confirmed Filipino casualties in the attack.

Meanwhile, on Saturday night, the remaining 11 Filipino crew members of MV Magic Seas arrived in the Philippines, completing the repatriation of 17 Filipino seafarers from a separate incident.