The remains of a Filipino seafarer who died after the M/V Venturo was struck by a drone in the Black Sea have been repatriated to the Philippines, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said.

The remains arrived from Bucharest, Romania, aboard Turkish Airlines Flight TK084 and were turned over to the family for burial in the seafarer’s hometown.

The seafarer was among the Filipino crew members aboard the Venturo when the vessel was hit by a drone on 17 July while sailing near Odesa, Ukraine. The strike severely damaged the vessel and disabled its propulsion system, leaving it adrift.

Upon arrival, OWWA and the DMW assisted in the reception and transport of the remains.

OWWA said it will continue to provide assistance and support to the bereaved family, including guidance on available welfare services.