Speaker: Diplomacy key in safe release of 17 Filipino sailors in Yemen
Courtesy of the Philippine Embassy, Muscat
MANILA, Philippines — House of Representatives Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and other lawmakers have stressed that diplomacy and collaboration played a part in the release of 17 Filipino seafarers who were taken hostage by Houthi rebels in Yemen.
In a statement, Romualdez also commended President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his administration for securing the sailors’ freedom and ensuring their safety.
On Thursday morning, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed the release of 17 Filipino seafarers who had been held captive for over a year.
READ: DFA confirms release of 17 Filipino seafarers held hostage in Yemen
“It is with immense gratitude that we commend President Marcos and his administration for their tireless dedication to securing the freedom of our brave Filipino seafarers from the M/V Galaxy Leader,” Romualdez said.
“This milestone is a testament to the President’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of Filipino workers worldwide,” he added. “Their safe return is a triumph for their families and for the entire Filipino nation. This moment of joy is a reminder of what can be achieved through collaboration, perseverance, and diplomacy.”
Romualdez, however, emphasized the need to strengthen policies to protect the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Despite this, the Speaker stated that the House will continue to support measures benefiting OFWs, such as the recent passage and enactment of Republic Act No. 12021, or the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers.
READ: Marcos signs Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers into law
“The House of Representatives remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting legislation and reforms that promote the dignity, security, and prosperity of all Overseas Filipino workers,” he noted.
Kabayan party-list Rep. Ron Salo, meanwhile, also thanked Marcos and commended the seafarers for staying strong despite the adversity they faced.
“We join the families of the hostages and the whole nation in celebrating their release and eagerly await their return. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Department of Foreign Affairs, and all those who worked tirelessly to secure their freedom. This moment reflects the strength of our government’s commitment to the welfare of our overseas workers,” he said.
“We also commend the remarkable resilience of the seafarers who bravely endured this ordeal, as well as the unwavering determination of their families who never gave up hope. Their strength and faith are truly inspiring,” he added. “We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Sultanate of Oman for their efforts and crucial support in facilitating the release of our seafarers. We are truly grateful.”
According to Salo, government agencies should assess how they can assist the seafarers once they return to the country.
“We urge all relevant government agencies to extend comprehensive assistance and support to the seafarers and their families during their recovery and reintegration. The Department of Health (DOH) should provide the necessary medical and psychological care to aid their recovery,” he said.
“The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) to continue offering support to the seafarers and their families by facilitating financial assistance, and other critical reintegration services. Let us continue to stand united in ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of our Filipino seafarers, who remain a source of pride and strength for our nation,” he added.
OFW party-list Rep. Marissa Magsino said the safe release of the Filipino seafarers is good news.
“Isang magandang balita po ang pagkakaligtas at paglaya ng 17 Pilipinong seafarers na binihag ng Houthi rebels noong 2023 kasama ang kanilang mga kasamahan sa M/V Galaxy Leader na ngayon ay nasa pangangalaga ng Philippine Embassy sa Muscat, Oman,” she said.
(A good piece of news is the release and freedom of 17 Filipino seafarers who were kidnapped by Houthi rebels in 2023, along with their companions from the M/V Galaxy Leader, who are now under the care of the Philippine Embassy in Muscat, Oman.)
“Sa ngalan ng OFW Party List, lubos kaming nagpapasalamat sa mga kinauukulang ahensya ng gobyerno, lalo na sa Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) at sa ating mga embahada, na walang sawang nagtatrabaho para matiyak ang kaligtasan ng ating mga kababayan sa gitna ng matitinding pagsubok,” she added.
(On behalf of the OFW Party List, we sincerely thank the relevant government agencies, especially the DFA and our embassies, for their tireless efforts to ensure the safety of our fellow citizens amid these challenging times.)
