Persian Gulf tanker blast kills OFW

A Filipino seafarer died after an explosion aboard the Marshall Islands-flagged oil products tanker MT Velos Sapphire in the Persian Gulf on 5 November, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said late Saturday.

The DMW said 21 other Filipino crew members aboard the vessel were safe and unharmed. The tanker was sailing toward Sitrah, Bahrain, when the explosion occurred.

Initial reports pointed to a possible drone attack, although authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of the blast.

The DMW expressed condolences to the deceased seafarer’s family. The licensed manning agency had informed them of the death and was providing assistance, while the shipowner also assured them of its support.

No pollution or environmental damage has been reported following the incident, the DMW said. Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac assured the family of government support.

“We will provide all the support and guidance the bereaved family needs during this difficult time. As the President has consistently reminded us, we must always take care of the families of our Filipino seafarers,” Cacdac said.

The DMW said it was coordinating with the shipowner and relevant authorities to monitor developments and determine the circumstances of the explosion.