Twelve Filipino crew members of the Liberia-flagged chemical tanker M/V Tarif have arrived in Manila.
The Department of Migrant Workers said on Thursday, Aug. 27, that the Filipinos, who were on board the vessel when it sustained damage during outbound transit through the Strait of Hormuz -- arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Terminal 3 on August 25.
They were on Emirates flight EK332 to the Philippines.
The DMW said its representatives, representatives from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) Medical Team provided airport assistance, financial aid, and initial medical checks upon the seafarers' arrival.
"The DMW and OWWA directed the manning agency to facilitate the seafarers' required physical and psychological assessments and debriefing sessions, and to ensure the prompt release of all applicable benefits and compensation due to the crew following their repatriation," the DMW said.
It also reminded OFWs "facing crisis or distress" they may seek assistance through the DMW AKSYON Fund under the government's UPLIFT Initiative by visiting or contacting the DMW Central Office, the nearest DMW Regional Office or Migrant Workers Office (MWO), or by visiting https://dmw.gov.ph/contact-us
"Following the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the DMW also reminded licensed manning agencies and their accredited principals to continuously monitor the welfare of deployed Filipino seafarers, observe required safety precautions, and comply with established protocols for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. OFWs may seek," the DMW added.
