Tulfo proposes hearing on seafarer deployment policies

Senator Raffy Tulfo announced on Thursday that he will propose a legislative hearing to review policies and regulations for deploying Filipino seafarers in high-risk waters.

The proposal comes after reports emerged that nine Filipino sailors are being held by Houthi rebels in Yemen.

Tulfo suggested the need for mandatory security assessments on dangerous routes and possible deployment bans in areas with significant threats.

Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo De Vega confirmed that the Houthis were holding nine Filipino seafarers, prompting Tulfo to urge the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to ensure their safety and swift return.

In 2024, the DMW issued guidelines for licensed manning agencies to observe when assigning Filipino seafarers on ships in high-risk areas.

The guidelines aim to protect the safety and well-being of all Filipino seafarers amid increasing incidents of piracy and armed violence.