The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed the release of 17 Filipino seafarers who have been held captive in Yemen for more than a year.
In a statement, the DFA thanked the Sultanate of Oman for their support and efforts to intervene for the safety of the Filipino seafarers.
In November 2023, the Houthi Rebels captured the MV Galaxy Leader in the Red Sea and took the 25 crews, including 17 Filipinos.
The agency said this success is proof that quiet diplomacy is effective in solving crises.
“Our successful efforts despite all the challenges prove that quiet diplomacy works. The men and women of DFA will remain true to our calling to serve our country and our people,” the statement said.
The DFA is currently taking steps to repatriate seafarers back to Manila to reunite with their families who have long been longing for their return.
(Philippine Embassy, Muscat Photo)
Abner is an award-winning journalist. He received the prestigious 2015 Titus Brandsma Award for Community Communication in the Philippines and participated in the 2016 International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) of the United States of America, sponsored by the US Embassy in the Philippines. Founder of WATCH NORTH COTABATO, a media-citizens’ transparency group. He worked as a correspondent for the Philippine Daily Inquirer and CNN Philippines. His experience in broadcasting includes anchoring for Brigada News FM in Kidapawan and General Santos City and Brigada News TV. He anchors Tira Brigada via 105.1 Brigada News FM Manila, Mondays-Saturdays.