Two Filipino seafarers who were recently freed from captivity in Haiti have been formally welcomed home by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). The seafarers, both crew members of the vessel MV Century Royal, were presented at the DMW Central Office in Mandaluyong City on June 19, 2025, where officials assured them of full support for their recovery and reintegration.

DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac emphasized that their safe return was a priority of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who expressed relief and gratitude over their release. “The President was very glad to hear of your safe return. Rest assured, the government stands with you and will provide the necessary support for your recovery and reintegration,” Cacdac said.

The two seafarers were among the crew members of MV Century Royal who were taken hostage in Haiti in early April 2025. They arrived in the Philippines separately, on May 23 and June 17, after their release from captivity.

During the meeting, Secretary Cacdac was joined by Undersecretaries Bernard P. Olalia and Felicitas Q. Bay, Assistant Secretary Maria Regina Galias, and DMW Directors. The officials also met with the seafarers’ families, their colleagues’ spouses, and representatives from the manning agency involved.

As part of the government’s immediate assistance, each of the seafarers received ₱75,000 from the AKSYON Fund, while the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has committed to providing further reintegration aid, particularly for the educational needs of their children.

The case underscores the Philippine government’s continued commitment to safeguarding overseas Filipino workers and extending comprehensive support to them and their families in times of crisis.


PHOTO COURTESY: DMW