March 10, 2026 – DMW is providing full support to the family of a Filipino seafarer who recently went missing near the Strait of Hormuz. Following directives from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the agency quickly mobilized to assist the family while authorities conduct search and rescue operations.
The Incident at Sea
The missing seafarer was working aboard a tugboat deployed to help a distressed vessel that had come under attack. While the crew members of the original distressed ship are reported safe, one Filipino crew member from the responding tugboat remains unaccounted for.
Currently, the DMW is actively tracking ships with Filipino crew members near the Strait of Hormuz. The agency has monitored approximately 6,400 Filipino seafarers on vessels throughout the region, and all have been marked safe.
Immediate Government Response
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac confirmed that the DMW, alongside the OWWA and regional offices, reached out immediately to help the affected family.
“Our team a few days ago had already visited the family’s home and assured them of our full support during these difficult times while we await the results of the search and rescue at sea,” Secretary Cacdac stated.
Strict Advisory on War-Risk Zones
In light of the ongoing security threats, the DMW is reminding maritime workers and shipping companies about Advisory No. 11, series of 2026. Following decisions made by the International Bargaining Forum, this advisory officially designates specific high-risk waters as “Warlike Operations Areas.”
These dangerous zones include:
- The Persian Gulf
- The Strait of Hormuz
- The Gulf of Oman
The advisory outlines strict protections for maritime workers navigating these regions. Key provisions include:
- The Right to Refuse: Filipino seafarers have the absolute right to refuse sailing into these designated high-risk areas.
- Enhanced Security: Shipowners must implement elevated security measures on all vessels passing through these waters.
- Guaranteed Compensation: Employers are required to provide appropriate benefits and hazard compensation for all affected crew members.
The DMW continues to monitor the situation closely, prioritizing the safety and well-being of overseas Filipino maritime workers operating in volatile regions.