Marcos Orders Aid for Families of Seafarers Killed in Black Sea Drone Attack

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos has ordered the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to provide assistance to the families of the two seafarers killed in the Black Sea drone attacks. Palace press officer Claire Castro said DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac has been directed to reach out to the families of the fatalities and ensure that legal aid would be provided to them. Castro said local manning agencies may lose their licenses if they are found to have committed violations. Two Filipino seafarers died, 12 were injured and another one went missing following the drone attacks on nine ships carrying 139 Filipinos in the Black Sea. As a major labor-exporting nation, the Philippines has a large number of citizens working abroad, with seafaring jobs often offering significant earning potential. This incident highlights ongoing concerns for the safety of Filipino nationals employed internationally. Amidst rising tensions in the South China Sea, the Philippines prioritizes the safety and welfare of its citizens. This event underscores the critical importance of maritime security on international shipping routes.