The process for the repatriation of the nine Filipino seafarers being held by Houthi forces is in an advanced stage, making their repatriation before Christmas almost certain.

Before Christmas Day is highly possible, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). In a statement on Tuesday, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said that following the release of the seafarers in Sana’a, Yemen, they will be transferred to Muscat, Oman.

“The Philippine embassy in Muscat and the Migrant Workers Office-Muscat will make arrangements for the safe and immediate return of the Filipinos to the Philippines,” the DFA said.

Last July, the DMW confirmed   the Houthis were holding the nine seafarers who survived the sinking of the Liberia-flagged MV Eternity C.

On 29 July, a Houthi propaganda video surfaced on X showing the survivors and featuring the testimonies of several Filipino crew members.

ME partners helped

Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said friendly Middle Eastern (ME) nations helped the Philippines appeal for the release of the Filipinos.

“We are hopeful that we have had excellent relations with many of these countries. I cannot just divulge the negotiations or the discussions,” Lazaro said.

The MV Eternity C was sunk in the Red Sea in a drone attack launched by the rebel group. The vessel had a crew of 22, 21 of them Filipinos.

Earlier this year, the Houthis released 17 Filipino seafarers from another ship, the MV Galaxy Leader, after holding them hostage for 14 months.

That release was made possible through the mediation of the government of Oman following the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas.