Twenty-two Filipino seafarers who were part of the crew of MT Sounion which was recently attacked by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea were safely repatriated back into the country.
The seafarers were on three separate flights that arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport starting on Saturday, according to a report by Mao dela Cruz on Super Radyo dzBB on Sunday.
They were welcomed by Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac and representatives of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The seafarers were given financial assistance from the DMW AKSYON Fund and additional cash aid from DSWD and OWWA.
Food and transportation assistance were also given as well as hotel accommodation as needed.
They also underwent medical assessment and psycho-social counseling.
The Greek-owned oil tanker MT Sounion was attacked by Houthi rebels last August 21. It caught fire and experienced engine power cut after the attack. The vessel was carrying 150,000 tonnes of crude oil at the time of the attack, Reuters reported.
The crew were rescued by a European naval mission.
On Saturday afternoon, Cacdac met the first 16 Filipino seafarers when they arrived at NAIA Terminal 3, according to a report by Luisito Santos on Super Radyo dzBB.
