The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) formally received two Filipino seafarers who were recently freed after being held hostage in Haiti, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the welfare of distressed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
The seafarers, both crew members of MV Century Royal, were abducted in early April 2025 and have now safely returned to the Philippines. They were welcomed at the DMW Central Office in Mandaluyong City on June 19, where top officials assured them of continued assistance.
Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac relayed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s relief upon learning of the crew’s safe return. “The President was very glad to hear of your safe release. His words were, ‘Very good,’” Cacdac said. “Rest assured, the government is here—you will be supported and provided with the assistance you need for your recovery and reintegration.”
The DMW has been coordinating closely with the seafarers’ manning agency to help ensure their full recovery. Upon their return on May 23 and June 17, each received ₱75,000 under the AKSYON Fund. The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) is also preparing further support, particularly for the children of the affected crew.
Present during the welcome were Undersecretaries Bernard Olalia and Felicitas Bay, Assistant Secretary Maria Regina Galias, and several DMW directors.
