MANILA – The Department of Migrant Workers confirmed on Thursday that three more Filipino crew members of the bulk carrier MV Eternity C were found safe, bringing the total number of rescued Filipino seafarers to eight.
“We have good news because the number of Filipinos rescued from the ship Eternity C has increased to eight. In other words, three more were found, so there are now eight of them. I will not disclose their current location, but rest assured they are safe,” the official said in an interview.
The Liberian-flagged MV Eternity C, with 22 crew members including 21 Filipinos, was attacked with missiles and rocket-propelled grenades by the Houthi forces off the coast of Yemen on July 7.
Five Filipino seafarers were immediately rescued in the water as the vessel sank due to the damage it sustained.
Reports of three to four possible fatalities are still being verified, and this will only be confirmed once authorities are able to speak with the surviving seafarers.
Following the President’s directive, the families of the seafarers will receive full assistance from the government, including regular updates and financial and psychosocial support.
“Take care of the families—that’s what our President said. We have been in close communication with all the families, and last night we began personal visits to provide them comfort and assurance from the government,” the official said.
MV Eternity C
The *MV Eternity C* appears to be a lesser-known or possibly fictional vessel, as there are no widely recognized records of a ship by this name in maritime history or cultural significance. If it is a real ship, it may be a small or privately owned craft without notable historical background. Additional details about its origin or purpose would be needed to provide a more accurate summary.
Red Sea
The Red Sea is a seawater inlet of the Indian Ocean, lying between Africa and Asia, known for its striking coral reefs, vibrant marine life, and historical significance as a key trade route since ancient times. It has played a crucial role in commerce and cultural exchange, linking the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean via the Suez Canal, which was completed in 1869. The sea’s name may derive from seasonal algae blooms or the reddish-hued mountains along its shores.
Houthi forces
The Houthi forces, officially known as *Ansar Allah* (Supporters of God), are a Zaidi Shia rebel group that emerged in northern Yemen in the 1990s. They rose to prominence in the 2000s, opposing Yemen’s government and Saudi influence, and seized control of the capital, Sanaa, in 2014, leading to a prolonged civil war and regional conflict. Backed by Iran, the group has been involved in a humanitarian crisis and remains a major political and military force in Yemen.
Department of Migrant Workers
The **Department of Migrant Workers (DMW)** is a Philippine government agency established in 2022 to protect the rights and welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). It consolidates services previously handled by multiple agencies, ensuring better support for migrant workers in areas like employment, legal assistance, and reintegration. The DMW reflects the Philippines’ commitment to its large diaspora, which has been a vital part of the nation’s economy and culture for decades.
Liberian-flagged
The term *”Liberian-flagged”* typically refers to ships registered under Liberia’s maritime flag, a practice dating back to 1948 when Liberia established one of the world’s first open registries. Known for its favorable tax and regulatory policies, Liberia’s flag of convenience has made it one of the largest ship registries globally. This system has played a key role in international shipping but has also faced criticism over labor and environmental standards.
Yemen
Yemen, located at the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, is a country with a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations like the Sabaeans, who established the legendary Kingdom of Sheba around 1200 BCE. It is home to UNESCO-listed sites such as the Old Walled City of Shibam, known as the “Manhattan of the Desert” for its towering mud-brick skyscrapers, and the historic Old City of Sana’a, with its distinctive architecture. Despite its cultural and historical significance, Yemen has faced prolonged conflict and humanitarian crises in recent years.
Filipino crew members
Filipino crew members have played a significant role in global maritime industries, making up a large portion of international ship crews due to their strong seafaring traditions and training. Historically, the Philippines became a major supplier of maritime labor in the 20th century, supported by government programs and specialized schools. Today, they are highly regarded for their professionalism, adaptability, and contributions to the shipping and hospitality sectors aboard cruise and cargo ships worldwide.
President
The term *”President”* typically refers to the leader of a country or organization, particularly in a republican system of government. The role has historical roots in ancient republics but became prominent in modern times with figures like George Washington, the first U.S. President (1789–1797), shaping the executive office’s democratic principles. Today, presidents serve as heads of state and/or government in many nations, with powers varying by constitution.
