A Filipino seafarer was killed and another injured after a suspected drone attack struck the Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker MT Velos Sapphire in the Persian Gulf on Nov. 5, authorities confirmed. According to initial reports, multiple drones targeted the vessel, triggering an explosion that resulted in the death of one Filipino crew member and injuries to another. The remaining 21 crew members aboard were reported safe and unharmed.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said it is coordinating closely with the vessel’s management, manning agency, and relevant government offices to provide assistance to the affected seafarers and their families. The agency assured the family of the deceased seafarer of financial aid, legal assistance, and other benefits, while arrangements are underway for the repatriation of the injured crew member and the remains of the fatality. The incident has renewed concerns over the safety of Filipino seafarers working aboard commercial vessels traversing conflict-prone waters in the Middle East. Maritime security experts have warned of heightened risks to merchant shipping amid ongoing regional tensions and increasing attacks involving drones and other aerial threats.
In an update, the DMW said it is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with international maritime authorities to ensure the welfare of Filipino crew members operating in high-risk areas. Philippine officials are also assessing whether additional safety measures and deployment protocols may be needed for seafarers assigned to routes passing through volatile maritime corridors.
