CACDAC IN DJIBOUTI TO HELP REPATRIATE FILIPINO SEAFARER WHO DIED IN GULF OF ADEN ATTACK; TO VISIT INJURED CREW MEMBER

IN response to the tragic September 29 attack on the MV Minervagracht in the Gulf of Aden, Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac is currently traveling to Djibouti to personally oversee the repatriation of the remains of the Filipino seafarer who lost his life and to visit another Filipino crew member who is now recovering in the hospital.

Cacdac is joined by DMW Assistant Secretary Jerome Pampolina, along with the wife and sister of the deceased seafarer.

The DMW delegation will coordinate closely with the Department of Foreign Affairs – Philippine Embassy (DFA-PE) and the shipowner to ensure a dignified and timely repatriation of the remains to the Philippines.

In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive, Cacdac reaffirmed the government’s commitment to provide full assistance and support to the families of both the slain and injured seafarers.

“We are here to ensure that our kababayan is brought home with the dignity he deserves, and that his family, along with his fellow seafarers, receive the care and support they need,” the DMW head said before leaving for Djibouti.

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) continues to collaborate closely with its partner agencies, the DFA, and the shipowners to facilitate assistance, documentation, and welfare support for all affected Filipino seafarers and their families.

The Minervagracht was in the international waters in the Gulf of Aden when it was struck by an explosive device that inflicted substantial damage and started a fire on the ship.

Yemen’s Houthis claimed  responsibility for the attack.

A Filipino, who was seriously wounded in the assault, succumbed to his injuries.

The Gulf of Aden is deemed as a high-risk area, which is located along the Indian Ocean, bordering Yemen and Somalia.

The gulf is considered a vital route for maritime trade.