Houthi-held Pinoy seafarers OK, allowed to call home – DMW

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said the nine Filipino crew members of the ill-fated MV Eternity C in Houthi captivity are in good condition and are in touch with their families.

In an interview Wednesday, DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said the Houthis have allowed the seafarers to remain in touch with their loved ones.

The seafarers are reportedly in good condition.

“Pinapayagan sila tumawag, (They are allowed to call,) and I hope it stays that way, and we hope again for their safe and secure release,” said Cacdac.

He said the DMW is currently working with the Department of Foreign Affairs, foreign governments, and the families of the seafarers in terms of checking on the captives’ welfare and their safe release.

“We are in touch with the families, so this is the number one directive of the President for the DMW: take care of the families, support them. Indeed we have. We have been handholding them through these difficult times,” he said.

“I have made personal visits to most of them, and we will do these continuing rounds of home visitations to ensure them of governmental support,” he added.

The DMW head shared that the families asked for their help in providing regular updates regarding the seafarers.

“That’s exactly what we do on a periodic basis. We meet virtually or (conduct) personal home visits,” Cacdac said.

On Monday, the Houthis released footage of the missing crewmen, claiming they were “rescued,” following the group’s attack on the ship early July.

It was confirmed later on that nine Filipino seafarers were among those being held captive by the Yemeni-based rebels.

The DFA on Tuesday said it will seek assistance from “friendly countries” in ensuring the seafarers’ safe return. — Jiselle Anne Casucian/RF, GMA Integrated News