Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Cacdac confirmed on Monday that nine Filipino crew members of the ill-fated MV Eternity C are currently in the custody of Houthi forces. The vessel was reported to have sunk in the Red Sea after sustaining heavy damage from a Houthi missile attack earlier this month.
“The nine are in the hands of the Houthi forces. We are in close coordination with the DFA and the families,” Secretary Cacdac said during a press briefing. He assured the public that the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is working closely with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to ensure the safe release of the Filipino seafarers.
The MV Eternity C, a bulk carrier flying the Liberian flag, was reportedly en route to Bulgaria when it came under fire. The attack, attributed to the Iran-backed Houthi rebels, was part of a string of recent maritime assaults linked to the ongoing conflict in the region. The vessel’s damage ultimately led to its sinking, raising concerns over the fate of its multinational crew.
Cacdac emphasized that diplomatic efforts are ongoing and that the government is exploring all possible avenues to reach the detained seafarers. “We are exhausting all channels, including international partners, to secure their safety,” he said.
Family members of the crew have also been informed and are receiving support from the government. The DMW said it remains hopeful for a peaceful resolution and the eventual safe repatriation of the affected seafarers.
The Philippine government continues to monitor the situation and has called on the international community to uphold maritime safety and protect innocent seafarers caught in conflict zones.