NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Filipinos Among Hostages In The Red Sea
Photo credit: DFA
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has issued a statement revealing that 17 Filipinos, along with other nationals, are currently held as hostages by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea.
The vessel they are on board was targeted due to its alleged Israeli ownership, despite being under Japanese ownership.
DFA spokesperson De Vega emphasized that this is not the first instance of such hostage-taking and indicated a connection to the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel.
Despite the circumstances, the DFA assured the public that the hostages, including foreign crew members, will not be harmed.
Immediate actions are being taken, with discussions underway involving various government agencies such as the Department of Transportation's Maritime Industry Authority (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
De Vega reaffirmed the government's unwavering commitment to prioritizing the safety of Filipino citizens abroad, stating, "Hindi namin pababayaan ang kanilang kapakanan" (We will not neglect their welfare).
The DFA is closely monitoring the situation and collaborating with relevant authorities to find a swift and effective resolution to secure the release of the hostages.
The vessel they are on board was targeted due to its alleged Israeli ownership, despite being under Japanese ownership.
DFA spokesperson De Vega emphasized that this is not the first instance of such hostage-taking and indicated a connection to the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel.
Despite the circumstances, the DFA assured the public that the hostages, including foreign crew members, will not be harmed.
Immediate actions are being taken, with discussions underway involving various government agencies such as the Department of Transportation's Maritime Industry Authority (DMW) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
De Vega reaffirmed the government's unwavering commitment to prioritizing the safety of Filipino citizens abroad, stating, "Hindi namin pababayaan ang kanilang kapakanan" (We will not neglect their welfare).
The DFA is closely monitoring the situation and collaborating with relevant authorities to find a swift and effective resolution to secure the release of the hostages.
Nov 22, 2023
