According to the Philippine Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), approximately 1,200 Filipino seafarers have now safely exited the Strait of Hormuz.
The DMW said that two vessels, Omicron Nikos and Nord, successfully cleared the strait on 25 April 2026 after becoming temporarily affected by disruptions in the Persian Gulf linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict. The ships, sailing under Russian and Liberian flags, carried 36 Filipino crew members, bringing the total number of Filipino seafarers who have safely transited out of the Strait to nearly 1,200.
As explained, the department continues to closely monitor vessel movements in the region while coordinating with manning agencies and shipowners to safeguard the welfare of Filipino seafarers. It also maintains direct communication with affected crew members and their families to ensure ongoing support and updates.
However, 15 Filipino seafarers remain onboard two container vessels seized by Iranian forces on 22 April. The ships, identified as the Epaminondas and Francesca, remain under Iranian control, though authorities have confirmed that the Filipino crew members are safe.
In a related development, India has reported the repatriation of more than 2,764 of its seafarers from the region.
IMO Secretary-General Dominguez has also warned that ships stranded in the Persian Gulf are likely to begin running low on essential supplies, including food, water and fuel. He acknowledged ongoing support from regional countries in providing provisions.
He further called on flag States, NGOs, industry bodies, and countries of seafarers’ nationality to provide assistance where possible, including remote support, helplines, and regular updates to families.
The IMO is working with member States and partners to prepare an evacuation plan for seafarers, which will be activated once conditions allow.
