Six of the 17 Filipino crew members of the MV Magic Seas have returned safely to the Philippines after their vessel came under attack in the Red Sea. The seafarers arrived separately at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 in Pasay City and Clark International Airport in Pampanga on July 11.

Three of the seafarers, including the ship’s chief officer, second officer, and third officer, landed at NAIA at around 4:30 p.m. onboard Philippine Airlines flight PR685. They were received by a whole-of-government team led by Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Assistant Secretary Francis Ron De Guzman, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Deputy Administrator Ryan Vincent Uy, representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the MIAA Medical Team.

Meanwhile, three more crew members—mostly from the ship’s engineering department—arrived at Clark International Airport at around 4:00 p.m.

Upon arrival, the seafarers were immediately provided with assistance: ₱75,000 each from the DMW’s AKSYON Fund and OWWA’s Emergency Repatriation Fund, and an additional ₱10,000 each from the DSWD. The MIAA Medical Team also conducted health check-ups. OWWA extended hotel accommodation and transport support to ensure their safe journey back to their families.

Assistant Secretary De Guzman reassured the returning crew that the Marcos administration is committed to their reintegration and long-term welfare. “As directed by the President, we will continue to provide all necessary support for your recovery and reintegration,” he said.

The ship’s chief officer, though still reeling from the traumatic ordeal, expressed gratitude for the swift response and assistance extended by the government.


PHOTO COURTESY: DMW