DMW aids Pinoy crew members amid Singapore Strait collision

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) promised comprehensive aid to Filipino crew members rescued after their Chinese-flagged fishing vessel collided with a Panama-flagged bulk carrier in the Singapore Strait, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said.

To recall, the 17 September maritime accident involved the fishing vessel FN Lu Qina Yuan Yu 108 and the cargo ship M/V First Margaux.

Cacdac instructed the licensed manning agencies responsible for deploying the crew to arrange medical evaluations and psychosocial counseling.

The agency is also assisting the crew in replacing personal and travel documents lost during the collision.

The DMW is evaluating legal liabilities and instructed the affected crew and their families to channel all claims regarding compensation and damages through the department.

Separately, the DMW is monitoring approximately 50 overseas Filipino workers affected by torrential rains and subsequent state-of-emergency declarations in Thailand.

Initial reports received by MWO Bangkok indicate several OFWs face power outages and limited access to food and clean water.

Cacdac cited that the agency is preparing emergency relief packages and financial aid in coordination with Thai authorities to support displaced workers.