11 Filipino seafarers return home after Ukraine drone attacks

Eleven Filipino seafarers — six crew members of MV INASE and five from MV VENTURO — have safely returned to the Philippines after their vessels were affected by drone attacks in Ukrainian waters.

The seafarers arrived on Friday, July 31, at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), with some arriving aboard Cathay Pacific Flight CX939 at Terminal 3 and others aboard Philippine Airlines Flight PR301 at Terminal 1 in Pasay City.

Upon their arrival, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) provided airport assistance and Special Financial Assistance to help address their immediate needs as they begin reintegrating with their families.

The returning seafarers were then received by their respective licensed manning agencies, which will continue to provide post-arrival support, including temporary accommodation, medical checkups and other necessary assistance before they return to their respective homes.

As the social protection institution for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), OWWA said it remains committed to providing assistance to Filipino workers in times of need.

In partnership with the DMW and other government agencies, OWWA said it is ready to deliver prompt, comprehensive and compassionate support—from emergency response to the safe return and recovery of OFWs and their families.