DMW suspends manning agency over MV Eternity C sinking

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has suspended the license of the manning agency and its principal responsible for the Filipino crew of the MV Eternity C, which sank after a Houthi attack.

Five Filipino seafarers have been rescued, but 17 remain missing following the attack on the bulk carrier that had 21 Filipino crew members on board.

DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac stated that the agency's license suspension is a preliminary regulatory measure pending a full investigation into the circumstances of the voyage.

The suspension addresses violations of DMW Department Order 1, which requires reporting of passages through high-risk zones like the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

Secretary Cacdac added that prior to boarding a ship traversing the Red Sea or Gulf of Aden, a risk assessment must be submitted, and requirements for an armed guard and maritime security escort must be met, which initial investigations reveal were not observed.

Filipino seafarers have the right to refuse deployment to such warlike zones.