81 Filipino seafarers safe after vessels exit Strait of Hormuz

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) reported the safe passage of four Philippine-registered vessels with 81 Filipino seafarers on board through the Strait of Hormuz.The DFA on Saturday night said MV Lyng Trader, MV Western Doncaster, MV Vivian Trader, and MV Eva Fuji crossed the strait between June 24 and July 1.'All 81 Filipino seafarers aboard the four vessels are safe. Most have resumed their regular seafaring duties, while others have taken the opportunity to return home to their families,' the DFA said on X.There are about 3,000 Filipino seafarers stranded aboard roughly 400 ships stuck in the Persian Gulf following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to renewed hostilities between the United States and Iran.The Foreign Affairs department recognized the critical role of the United Nations (UN) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 'safeguarding civilian shipping and seafarers.'The DFA said the UN and IMO have established the 'evacuation framework that has, to date, facilitated the safe passage of 136 vessels and approximately 2,900 seafarers out of the conflict area.''Evacuation operations were suspended following the end of the temporary ceasefire between Iran and the United States, leaving some Filipino seafarers still stranded in the region,' it added.The DFA said it 'continues to closely monitor the situation and remains committed to ensuring their safety and eventual safe passage home.'