17 Filipino Seafarers Taken Hostage by Houthi Rebels in Red Sea

The Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed that 17 Filipino seafarers were among the crew members held hostage by Yemen’s Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega expressed alarm and stated that diplomatic efforts were underway to secure the release of the Filipino hostages.

DFA Spokesperson Teresita Daza mentioned that various government agencies are collaborating to ensure the safe return of the seafarers. The Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, acknowledged hijacking an “Israeli cargo ship,” with a total of 25 people on board, including individuals from Bulgaria, Ukraine, Mexico, and Romania. The incident has raised concerns, given the potential risks to the affected crew members of different nationalities.