The Department of Foreign Affairs Condemns Houthi Rebels’ Attack on Filipino Crew in Red Sea
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) issued a statement on Friday denouncing the attack by Houthi rebels on the merchant vessel MV Tutor in the Red Sea. The DFA confirmed that the ship, owned by Greece but flying the Liberian flag, was struck by a Houthi unmanned surface vessel on June 12 and had Filipino crew on board.
DFA Spokesperson Teresita Daza promised to ensure the safe return of the Filipino workers and stated that the Philippine government would take all necessary measures to secure their safety, well-being, and justice. Daza also called on all United Nations member states to protect the human rights of seafarers.
Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, have been carrying out a series of attacks in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden as a show of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza amid the conflict between Israel and Palestine. Filipino crew members, who are a significant part of the global maritime sector, have unfortunately been caught in the crossfire.
In March, two Filipino seafarers lost their lives when a Houthi ballistic missile hit the M/V True Confidence in the Gulf of Aden. In response to these attacks, the Department of Migrant Workers prohibited the deployment of Filipino seafarers on ships traveling through the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, which have been classified as high-risk and war-like zones by international organizations.
The Filipino crew’s safety remains a top priority for the Philippine government, especially in light of the recent incidents involving Houthi rebels in the region.
