SEN. Maria Josefa Imelda “Imee” Marcos is deeply concerned about the safety of Filipino seafarers who may become “collateral damage” in the Israeli-Hamas war. The conflict has now extended beyond the Gaza Strip, with Yemeni rebels sympathetic to Hamas militants seizing an Israeli-owned cargo ship that had Filipino workers onboard.
In response to this alarming situation, Senator Marcos has called on the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and Department of Migrant Workers to take immediate action and negotiate the release of the Filipino seafarers who are being held hostage by Houthi rebels in Yemen.
This recent hijacking incident occurred on Sunday, November 26, in the Middle East, just a week after Houthi rebels seized another Israeli-linked cargo ship. The Central Park tanker, carrying phosphoric acid, was briefly seized in the Gulf of Aden by gunmen who fled when the US warship, USS Mason, responded to the ship’s distress call.
Fortunately, the vessel’s crew of 22 sailors from various countries, including Bulgaria, Georgia, India, the Philippines, Russia, Turkey, and Vietnam, were unharmed, according to Zodiac Maritime, the ship’s operator.
The DFA has confirmed that 17 Filipinos were among those held hostage during the hijacking of a cargo vessel in the Red Sea on November 19. Reports from the Associated Press stated that Yemen’s Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for the hijacking, citing the vessel’s connection to Israel and declaring that “all ships belonging to the Israeli enemy or that deal with it will become legitimate targets.”
Senator Marcos has expressed her concern that Filipino seafarers now face heightened risks, as Israel’s bombing of Gaza could draw in more militant groups seeking revenge for the deaths of thousands of Palestinians.
The global maritime industry employs a significant number of Filipino seafarers, with approximately half a million serving on cargo and cruise ships, comprising 25 percent of the total workforce. Given the ongoing conflict, Senator Marcos warns that there seems to be no end in sight, and more Filipino seafarers may become unintended victims.
In a statement, Senator Marcos, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, emphasized the need for the DFA to exercise caution in its diplomatic positions, particularly as a member of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
She highlighted that the Philippines’ abstention from a UNGA resolution calling for a humanitarian pause in Israel’s attacks in Gaza “has not gone unnoticed” among Arab nations. This decision could potentially impact future negotiations on the release of Filipino hostages.
Senator Marcos acknowledged that the Philippines’ alliance with the United States and its foreign policies in the ongoing conflict complicate the country’s own stance. However, she firmly stated that Filipino interests must come first and be upheld.
As the situation continues to evolve, it is imperative for the Philippine government to prioritize the safety and well-being of its citizens, especially those who are working in high-risk areas. Efforts must be made to ensure their protection and secure their prompt release from any hostage situations.
Senator Marcos’ call to action serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by Filipino seafarers and the need for swift and decisive measures to safeguard their lives and livelihoods.
Source: The Manila Times
