DMW vows support for 17 Filipino seafarers freed from Yemen
FINALLY RELEASED The 17 Filipino crew members of MV Galaxy Leader who were held captive by Yemeni rebels for over a year. —PHOTO FROM PHILIPPINE EMBASSY IN OMAN
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Tuesday said it will ensure livelihood and employment support for the 17 Filipino crew members of M/V Galaxy Leader, who were recently freed after over a year of captivity by Houthi rebels in Yemen.
This followed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to help the seafarers and their families rebuild their lives.
“The seafarers and their families received financial assistance, training certificates and gift bags from the DMW, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority,” the DMW said in a statement on Tuesday.
READ: 17 Filipino seafarers held captive in Yemen back home
The seafarers dubbed the “Courageous 17,” were welcomed home with a Thanksgiving Mass officiated by Fr. Paulo Prigol, CS.
Fr. Prigol commended the families’ patience and resilience throughout the ordeal in his homily.
“Today we say ‘Thank You’ for coming home safely,” he said in his homily on Monday.
The DMW said a representative of the seafarers thanked Marcos and the agencies involved in their rescue, emphasizing the government’s diplomatic efforts with Oman.
READ: 17 seafarers held hostage in Yemen are now free
“I want to express my heartfelt thanks to President Bongbong Marcos for your leadership and unwavering support. Your efforts to ensure the safety and well-being for every Filipino, especially sa mga OFW, serves as a beacon of hope for all of us. Mabuhay po kayo,” he said.
Marcos also instructed the DMW to ensure the safe return of the seafarers and their families to their homes as they begin rebuilding their future.
The DMW likewise acknowledged the support of other agencies, including the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Transportation in securing the seafarers’ release.
