81 Filipino seafarers safely leave conflict area via Strait of Hormuz - DFA

Four Philippine-registered vessels carrying 81 Filipino seafarers have safely passed through the Strait of Hormuz and exited the conflict area in the Persian Gulf between June 24 and July 1, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said in a statement on Saturday.

The DFA identified the vessels as the MV Lyng Trader, MV Western Doncaster, MV Vivian Trader, and MV Eva Fuji.

“All 81 Filipino seafarers aboard the four vessels are safe. Most have resumed their regular seafaring duties, while others have taken the opportunity to return home to their families,” the DFA said.

The Foreign Affairs Department recognized the critical role of the United Nations and the International Maritime Organization in safeguarding civilian shipping and seafarers.

To date, the DFA said its evacuation framework has enabled the safe passage of 136 vessels carrying approximately 2,900 seafarers from the conflict area.

Following a new wave of hostilities between Iran and the United States, the DFA has suspended its evacuation efforts but continues to monitor the situation.

“Evacuation operations were suspended following the end of the temporary ceasefire between Iran and the United States, leaving some Filipino seafarers still stranded in the region,” the DFA said.

“The DFA continues to closely monitor the situation and remains committed to ensuring their safety and eventual safe passage home,” it added. —VBL, GMA News