Photo credit: DMW

After over a year of being held captive in Yemen, 17 Filipino seafarers from the vessel M/V Galaxy Leader have finally returned to the Philippines. Their arrival at NAIA Terminal 1 on Thursday evening was nothing short of emotional as they were greeted warmly by government officials and loved ones.

The crew landed safely at 9:31 PM aboard Oman Air flight 843, marking the end of a harrowing chapter in their lives. The seafarers’ repatriation was carried out under the direct orders of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., with a "one-team" approach ensuring their safety and welfare every step of the way.

Key officials, including Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo, and Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, were present at the airport to personally welcome the group. The effort highlighted the government’s commitment to prioritizing the protection and well-being of Filipino seafarers and their families.

After months of uncertainty and fear, the seafarers are now back on home soil, ready to start anew with the support of their families and the government. Their safe return is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Philippine agencies working tirelessly to bring them back.