Six Filipino seafarers from the M/V Grace Romavictor safely returned to the Philippines from the Black Sea on Sunday night, 6 September.

The seafarers arrived aboard Etihad Airways Flight EY446 at Ninoy Aquino International Airport after being affected by an incident in the Black Sea, a high-risk area amid the continuing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Upon arrival, they were assisted by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Department of Migrant Workers and the Manila International Airport Authority medical team.

The agencies provided arrival processing, medical and welfare assistance, as well as special financial aid.

Their licensed manning agency also arranged post-arrival medical checkups, temporary accommodation and onward travel before their return to their respective families.

OWWA said its regional welfare offices will continue assisting the seafarers after they return to their communities, including referrals for welfare, reintegration and other support services based on their needs and eligibility.

The agency said it remains committed to providing assistance to overseas Filipino workers and seafarers, from crisis response to their safe return and reintegration with their families.