Pinoy seafarer dies in oil tanker explosion in Persian Gulf, 21 others unharmed

November 9 ------ The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has started all the necessary preparations in extending the assistance to the family of a Filipino seafarer who died in an explosion while aboard an oil tanker in the Persian Gulf.

At least 21 Filipinos were also on board the Marshall Islands-flagged oil products tanker MT Velos Sapphire and DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said that they were already informed by the manning agency that they were all unharmed. The explosion happened early hours on Nov. 5 while the vessel was sailing towards Sitrah in Bahrain.

Cacdac said the cause of the explosion remains to be verified although the initial reports indicated the possibility of a drone attack. Currently, Cacdac said their focus is providing all the necessary assistance to the family of the Filipino fatality and 21 other seafarers. “The DMW continues to coordinate with the shipowner and relevant authorities to monitor developments, determine the circumstances of the explosion, and ensure that assistance reaches the bereaved family,” said Cacdac. “We will provide all the support and guidance the bereaved family needs during this difficult time. As the President has consistently reminded us, we must always take care of the families of our Filipino seafarers," he added.

It was the shipowner which reported the incident to the licensed manning agency, which in turn, informed the DMW about it.

Cacdac said the family of the fatality was already informed, with both the manning agency and the shipowner providing assistance and guidance. “The shipowner has likewise conveyed its condolences and assured the family of its support. No pollution or environmental damage has been reported following the incident,” said Cacdac.

The news of the incident came as the remains of an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) who died in a drone attack that targeted a facility at Saudi Aramco's Shaybah oilfield, arrived in the country on Nov. 6. The attack happened on Oct. 21 and the OFW died after he was hit while driving in the area.

The DMW said the OFW's employer arranged the repatriation in coordination with the Migrant Workers Office in Al Khobar, the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh, and Saudi authorities. The employer also processed the worker's outstanding salary, end-of-service benefits, and other labor entitlements.

Cacdac said the family will receive financial assistance, burial assistance, and educational support for the OFW's child. The family will also be guided in managing the assistance they receive through reintegration programs with government agencies and private-sector partners, which will help them address their immediate needs and prepare for the years ahead.

Source: mb.com.ph