The Philippine government confirmed Wednesday that Filipino seafarers were on board the Eternity C, a commercial vessel hit by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea earlier this week. Rescue efforts are currently underway, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said.
DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac stated that the ship remains in the area where it was attacked, with its engine disabled. The Filipino crew, including the captain, are still on board and in communication with authorities.
Although there are unverified reports of casualties, the DMW is still awaiting official confirmation. The Greek-operated Eternity C reportedly had 22 crew members — 21 Filipinos and one Russian. According to EU mission Aspides, four crew members were killed and at least two others injured.
Cacdac assured the public that the government is actively monitoring the situation and coordinating closely with international partners to ensure the safety of the crew.
He also noted that since early 2024, seafarers have had the right to divert voyages away from high-risk zones like the Red Sea. Guidelines require shipowners and manning agencies to notify authorities in advance if they plan to sail through conflict-prone areas.
“Our priority now is to rescue the crew,” Cacdac said. “Later, we will review whether the company followed the mandatory safety reporting protocols.”
Further updates will be provided once information is verified.