On Thursday, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) pledged to offer extensive financial and welfare assistance to the 17 Filipino seafarers recently liberated by Houthi rebels upon their return to the country.
DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac confirmed that the department, in collaboration with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and other government agencies, will extend various forms of aid to the seafarers and their families.
"The DMW is dedicated to supporting our seafarers and their families as they recover from this harrowing experience. This support includes financial assistance, livelihood programs, and access to health and wellness services," Cacdac stated during a media interview.
Cacdac reassured that the Filipino seafarers, expected to arrive on Thursday night, are in good health and spirits.
"On social media, I have mentioned that they are home. While they may not be physically home yet, in their hearts, they know they are safe and on their way home," he said.
In his statement, Cacdac expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Sultanate of Oman and all government agencies, private partners, and international entities involved in the successful mediation that led to the release of the 17 Filipino seafarers.
He also extended his appreciation to the families of the seafarers for their trust in the Philippine government, which he noted strengthened the department's efforts to secure their release.
"Their freedom brings immense relief to their families and reaffirms the collective efforts of the government to safeguard our dear Filipino seafarers," he remarked.
During the Tahanan ng OFW radio program on Radyo Pilipinas, DMW Director Jasmine Gapatan revealed that the department would provide PHP75,000 in financial aid from its Aksyon Fund to each of the 17 seafarers. This assistance will also cover medical, welfare, and psychosocial support.
Additionally, Gapatan mentioned that the DMW, through the National Reintegration Center for OFWs, would offer livelihood and investment training.
Assistant Secretary for Sea-based OFW Concerns, Jerome Pampolina, noted that the OWWA would also provide separate financial aid, while the Department of Health and the Department of Social Welfare and Development would extend other forms of assistance.
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