The Philippine government has confirmed that a crew of Filipino seafarers was aboard the commercial vessel Eternity C, which was attacked by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. The cargo ship sustained engine damage during the incident, which occurred on Monday. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is in direct contact with the Filipino captain and is actively monitoring the situation. Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac highlighted that the crew remains on board the ship, which is still in the vicinity of the attack, and that rescue operations are currently in progress, although information regarding possible casualties is still unverified.
Unconfirmed reports have indicated casualties among the crew, with four seafarers reportedly killed, as per sources familiar with the situation. In total, Eternity C had 22 crew members aboard, comprised of 21 Filipinos and one Russian. Additionally, two other crew members sustained injuries during the attack, which involved sea drones and skiffs, according to the European Union’s mission devoted to safeguarding shipping in the Red Sea.
Cacdac reassured the public that the government is closely monitoring the evolving situation and coordinating efforts for the crew’s safety. He emphasized the importance of communication with the seafarers, particularly the Filipino captain.
Since early 2024, the Philippine government has established guidelines allowing Filipino seafarers the option to divert their voyages away from the conflict-prone Red Sea and to refuse deployment in high-risk areas. Under these regulations, shipowners and manning agencies must report plans to transit through the Red Sea, which aims to enhance the safety and security of Filipino workers.
While immediate actions focus on the rescue of the crew, the DMW will also review whether the shipping company and manning agency adhered to existing safety protocols. The agency has yet to disclose the specific number of Filipino seafarers on board but promises to provide further updates once more information is verified.
