MANILA, Philippines– The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) met with 17 Filipino seafarers in Manila who returned to the Philippines last week after being held captive by Houthi rebels for 428 days.
The gathering, which included a luncheon and a thanksgiving mass, commemorated their safe return and marked a key moment in their reintegration process.
The DMW, in collaboration with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), provided the seafarers with various forms of support.
Financial assistance was given to help ease their transition back into their communities after enduring more than a year in captivity.
In addition to the financial aid, the seafarers were presented with training certificates from TESDA, recognizing the skills they developed or enhanced while abroad.
These certificates aim to improve their employability and open doors for them in the maritime and other related industries. Gift bags were also given to attendees, symbolizing the government’s welcome and solidarity.
The event brought together the seafarers and their families, who expressed relief and gratitude for the support provided.
The seafarers were captured by Houthi rebels over a year ago, marking the start of a prolonged and uncertain ordeal.
Efforts to secure their release involved coordination among various organizations and authorities, culminating in their return to the Philippines.
The thanksgiving mass offered a moment of reflection and gratitude, providing the seafarers and their families a chance to come together and express thanks for their safe return.