Sixteen Filipino seafarers from the MT Sounion arrived safely at NAIA Terminal 3 in Pasay City today, August 31, 2024. Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac assured them of full support and assistance from the government.
The repatriated seafarers were among 23 Filipino crew members on the Greek-owned oil tanker attacked by Houthi rebels on August 21. The remaining seven crew members are also scheduled for repatriation, coordinated by their manning agencies, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
Each repatriated seafarer received immediate financial assistance of Php 75,000 from the DMW AKSYON Fund, along with additional aid from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and OWWA. They will also undergo medical assessments and psycho-social counseling.