Two Filipino seafarers lost their lives when their vessels were struck by drones in the Black Sea, sparking a demand for stronger safeguards for overseas workers.
During a recent transit through the Black Sea or while docked in Ukrainian and Russian ports, nine ships carrying roughly 139 Filipino crew members were targeted. The attacks caused two fatalities, injured twelve others, left one crew member missing, and left 124 sailors safe.
These incidents expose shortcomings in current protections, even though the region has been classified as a war‑like operating area.
Officials have called on shipowners and manning agencies to steer clear of high‑risk routes and to ensure that seafarers can refuse deployment without facing discrimination. Affected workers and their families will receive ongoing medical, psychological, and repatriation assistance.
The president has instructed the relevant agency to provide legal aid to the families of the deceased seafarers. A review of the incidents is underway to strengthen protection for Filipinos deployed in conflict zones.
