MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Thirteen Filipino seafarers from the cargo vessel M/V Maybach V safely returned to the Philippines on August 25, 2026, after being repatriated from Ghana. The crew arrived at NAIA Terminal 3 aboard Ethiopian Airlines flight ET644.

Their repatriation was facilitated through the joint efforts of the Philippine Embassy in Abuja, Nigeria, and the Philippine Consulate in Accra, Ghana, after the seafarers reported difficult conditions aboard the vessel while it was docked at the Port of Sekondi-Takoradi. Their concerns reportedly included inadequate basic supplies and delayed payment of wages.

Upon arrival, the seafarers were welcomed by Department of Migrant Workers Assistant Secretary Julyn S. Ambito-Fermin, representatives of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, and the Manila International Airport Authority Medical Team, which provided initial medical assessment and airport assistance. The DMW assured the returning crew that government agencies would continue helping them secure their unpaid wages, benefits, and other compensation due to them.

The DMW and OWWA also directed the deploying agency, Royal Dynasty Maritime Services, Inc., to provide the affected seafarers with medical and psychological debriefing and ensure the full payment of benefits and compensation related to their repatriation.

The DMW reiterated its reminder to manning agencies to closely monitor the safety and welfare of Filipino seafarers deployed overseas. OFWs facing emergencies or requiring assistance are encouraged to coordinate with the nearest DMW, OWWA, or Migrant Workers Office, particularly for available government assistance under the DMW AKSYON Fund and UPLIFT Initiative.