DMW building. File photo / ABC
MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Friday confirmed that all 17 Filipino seafarers aboard a Liberian-flagged container vessel were safe following the recent attack by Houthi rebels while traversing the Gulf of Aden.
In a press release, the DMW said that MV Groton with 19 crew members on board was hit with a ballistic missile last August 3.
The DMW said it would continue to monitor the situation.
It added that it was ready to assist the seafarers and their families.
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“The Department also reminds Filipino seafarers that they have the right to refuse sailing in High-risk and War-like zones,” such as the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
“Seafarers may inform the DMW of their conditions or submit their Confirmation of Refusal to traverse the Red Sea or Gulf of Aden, and/or to other High-risk and War-like zones at sbhighrisk@dmw.gov.ph.,” the press release added.
The department also reiterated its call for shipowners to divert from the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, stating that it will strictly enforce Department Order No. 3 series of 2024 which prohibits the deployment of Filipino seafarers on board ships that have already been attacked on designated High-risk and War-like zones.
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MV Groton sustained minor damages after it was attacked 60 nautical miles off Yemen on its way to Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
It diverted its course and is now docked at the port of Djibouti for evaluation.
The ship’s operator, Cornbulk Shipmanagement Corporation, said no oil leakages or entry of water have been observed.
International reports stated that the Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for the attack.