THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirms that all 17 Filipino seafarers aboard MV Groton are safe after a missile attack by Houthi rebels last August 3.
MV Groton sustained minor damages and there were no oil leakages or water ingress observed, according to reports from its operator, Cornbulk Shipmanagement Corporation.
The ship was attacked 60 nautical miles off Yemen on its way to Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It diverted its course and is now docked at the port of Djibouti for evaluation. All 19 crew members (17 of whom are Filipinos) are safe and there were no reported injuries.
The DMW will continue to monitor the situation and remains ready to assist the seafarers and their families.
The DMW reiterates its call for shipowners to divert from the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The DMW will strictly enforce Department Order No. 3 series of 2024 which prohibits the deployment of Filipino seafarers on board ships which have already been attacked in designated High-risk and War-like zones.
The Department also reminds Filipino seafarers that they have the right to refuse sailing in High-risk and War-like zones. Seafarers may inform the DMW of their conditions or submit their Confirmation of Refusal to traverse the Red Sea, or Gulf of Aden, and/or to other High-risk and War-like zones at sbhighrisk@dmw.gov.ph.
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