The appeal for the release of the 17 Filipino crew members of the Houthi-seized MV Galaxy Leader in Yemen, especially the three who were hospitalized and are exhibiting malaria symptoms, is “in the works,” the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said.
During the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City, DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said the three sick sailors are currently in a hospital while the other 14 are still on board the vessel.
On the immediate release of the three, he said it “is something that is still in the works.”
The DFA earlier informed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. about the condition of the three. It confirmed that the Sana’a government in Yemen has provided necessary medical assistance.
Honorary Consul to Yemen Mohammad Saleh Al-Jamal had also sought the assistance from Sana’a authorities for the release of the Filipino crew members, citing humanitarian reasons because of their declining health.
A planned visit by Al-Jamal on board MV Galaxy Leader is also being worked out, the first since he was allowed to board about three months ago.
Sana’a, whose authorities control the Houthis, is the capital and the largest city of Yemen.
Based on a DFA memorandum dated July 30, the Sana’a government affirmed that “negotiations and discussions are plausible for their fate and possible release.”
The Houthi hijacked the Bahamas-flagged MV Galaxy Leader near Hodeidah in November 2023 while it was sailing for India and held hostage its 25 crewmembers, 17 of whom are Filipino nationals.
Rep. Marissa Magsino of OFW party-list meanwhileappealed for government’s urgent and stronger actions to facilitate the release of the malaria stricken Filipino seafarers held hostage by the Houthi rebels.
“These Filipino seafarers and other crew members are just working to help their families. They did not create any problems, nor do they want to harm others. Like any other Overseas Filipino Worker who love their families, they only went abroad to provide for their loved ones,” said Magsino.
Earlier, Magsino called the host countries to protect not only Filipino seafarers, but all those plying to dangerous seas.
President Marcos requested Sana’a authorities to release the Filipino seamen for humanitarian reasons.
Magsino also cited humanitarian reasons to release these Filipino seafarers.
“I join the President on his appeal, please release the Filipino seafarers, especially now that they need medical care,” Magsino said.
The Department of Foreign Affairs said that Sana’a government sent specialized doctors to the vessel to carry out necessary medical procedures. But DFA added that on the release of the Filipino seafarers, the Sana’a government responded by saying it depends on the external decisions.
Magsino said her group will be coordinating with DFA and other major agencies in negotiations and discussion for the possible release of the Filipino seafarers.
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