The remains of a Filipino seafarer who lost his life in the Houthi rebel attack on the cargo ship MV Minervagracht in the Gulf of Aden last September 29 have been brought home to the Philippines on October 19, 2025.
His body was received at the airport by his grieving family, accompanied by representatives from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the licensed manning agency that deployed him.
According to initial information, the remains will be brought to Iligan City, the hometown of his wife, before being transferred to Zamboanga del Sur where his parents and relatives await his arrival.
The DMW extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved family and assured continued assistance in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. The agency also urged the public to offer prayers and respect for the fallen seafarer and his family during their time of mourning.
Meanwhile, the DMW said it has launched an investigation to determine the possible liability of the manning agency and its foreign principal. The agency vowed to impose appropriate sanctions should any violations of existing regulations be established.
Ten other Filipino crew members from the same vessel were safely repatriated on October 4, while another, who was seriously injured, returned on October 10 and is currently recovering.
