DMW: 2 OFWs in seized chemical tanker safe

Two overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) on board chemical tanker MV Central Park, which was attacked in the Gulf of Aden on Sunday, have been deemed safe.

Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) officer in charge Hans Leo Cacdac confirmed their safety in a television interview on Monday.

“We’re also trying to track where the vessel is at this stage. But we know from the licensed manning agency, and corroborated by the US Naval Institute website report that the crew, including the two Filipinos, are safe and unharmed,” he said.

“In due time, there will be a safe repatriation for the two Filipinos,” he added.

A US Navy warship responded to a distress call from the tanker after it had been seized by armed individuals.

US officials did not identify the attackers but said they were repulsed by the USS Mason with help from allied ships.

‘Delicate situation’

The latest incident followed the seizure of an Israeli-linked cargo ship by Yemeni armed group Houthi in the southern Red Sea on Nov. 19. The Houthi group also held hostage the ship’s crew members including 17 Filipino seafarers.

“The DFA had properly coordinated with foreign governments who may or can help us with respect to the safe rescue and repatriation of our seafarers. The situation is delicate,” Cacdac said.

The department earlier said it is counting on the assurance of Houthi rebels that no foreign crew members would be hurt.

High-risk zones

Cacdac also raised the possibility of declaring certain areas in the Red Sea as high-risk zones for Filipino seafarers.

“We’re looking at the possibility of expanding the high-risk zones. This would mean that seafarers would be properly alerted when they are entering a high-risk zone or taking a voyage on a ship that would go through a high-risk zone,” he said.

He added this would also mean double compensation and benefits for seafarers for being on a ship that passes through high-risk zones.