Fifteen Filipino seafarers remain safe and unharmed after Iranian forces seized two containerships in the Strait of Hormuz, according to Philippine authorities.
The crew members were on board the Epaminondas and MSC Francesca, which were boarded and detained on April 22 by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps while transiting the waterway. In total, 10 Filipino seafarers were on Epaminondas and five on MSC Francesca.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed that all affected crew are in good condition. Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac stated that authorities remain in close contact with the seafarers, their families, manning agencies, and shipowners, while continuing to provide support and updates.
The incident highlights the growing risks for crews operating in the Gulf amid escalating tensions. Filipino seafarers, who make up a significant share of the global maritime workforce, have increasingly found themselves caught in regional security incidents.
Earlier this month, 21 Filipino crew members were on board the tanker Aqua 1 when it was struck by a missile near Ras Laffan Industrial City. No injuries were reported, and most of the crew have since returned home, with the remaining members expected to follow.
Philippine authorities say they are taking all necessary steps to safeguard their nationals at sea, including coordinating with shipping companies and providing assistance to affected families.
