26 Filipino Seafarers Await Repatriation After Attack On Bulk Carrier In Ukraine

Philippine authorities are working to bring home 26 Filipino seafarers who were on the bulk carrier Gingo when the vessel was attacked while it was docked in Ukraine on Sept. 2, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said.

All 26 Filipino crew members safely disembarked from the vessel by Sept. 4 and remain unharmed, according to the DMW.

They are currently awaiting transit to Moldova before their repatriation to the Philippines.

The Philippine Embassy in Warsaw, the Honorary Consul in Kyiv and the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Prague are keeping track of the seafarers and helping arrange their return.

Labor Attaché Llewelyn Perez said Philippine diplomatic missions are working with the relevant authorities to complete the documentation needed for the crew to return home.

The Philippine Embassy and Consulate in Kyiv are working with the shipowner and other authorities to process the crew’s travel documents.

The DMW said the seafarers’ needs are also being taken care of after they left the vessel. It is coordinating with their licensed manning agency and the shipowner to provide support.

As of Sept. 4, all 26 Filipino crew members had safely disembarked from the Gingo.

They remain unharmed and are waiting to travel to Moldova before they are sent home to the Philippines, the DMW said.

The Philippine authorities are continuing to work with the embassy, consulate and MWO on the crew’s return.

The DMW also assured the seafarers’ families that it will continue to monitor their situation and help arrange their safe return.

References: PNA, canadianinquirer