The Philippine government is working closely with Middle Eastern allies to secure the release of nine Filipino seafarers held by Houthi rebels in Yemen, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed.
DFA Undersecretary Eduardo De Vega said Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Oman are actively assisting the Philippines through diplomatic efforts, particularly in facilitating communications with Houthi forces.
“We’d like to thank all countries, but, of course, special mention countries like Saudi Arabia and Oman, Bahrain,” De Vega said in a televised interview, emphasizing the critical role these nations play in the ongoing negotiations.
The DFA is also coordinating with its honorary consul based near Sanaa, Yemen’s capital, despite the envoy not being officially recognized by the Houthi-controlled government. “But he has his contacts. It makes it easier for him to be able to arrange a meeting with them and we will update you about it to make sure that they’re alright,” De Vega added.
Talks with the Houthis are part of a broader effort involving multiple friendly nations, building on past diplomatic interventions that successfully led to the release of other Filipino hostages.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., in his recent State of the Nation Address, thanked international partners, especially Oman, for their crucial role in freeing 17 Filipino seafarers who had been held captive for over a year. “Matapos ang mahigit apat na raang araw, ang mga kababayan natin na binihag ng rebeldeng Houthi ay pinalaya na rin, dala ng ating pakikipagtulungan sa Sultanate of Oman,” the President said.
He also stressed the high risks faced by Filipino crew members abroad, calling the hostage crisis “a tragedy” and a stark reminder of the perils of maritime work in conflict zones.
The current hostages were part of the crew of the MV Eternity C, a Liberian-flagged vessel that was recently sunk. The DFA continues to appeal for the seafarers’ safe return as negotiations press on.
