MANILA, Philippines — A Filipino seafarer was killed while 21 other Filipino crewmembers were unharmed following an explosion on a Marshall Islands-flagged oil products tanker in the Persian Gulf, the Department of Migrant Workers said over the weekend.
The DMW said MT Velos Sapphire was en route to Sitrah, Bahrain when the explosion occurred on Nov. 5.
Initial reports indicated a possible drone attack, but the cause of the incident has yet to be established.
The DMW said the licensed manning agency, which received the shipowner’s report about the fatality, had informed the seafarer’s family.
The shipowner extended its condolences to the family and assured them of assistance.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said the DWM would provide the necessary assistance to the victim’s family, in accordance with President Marcos’ directive to ensure the welfare of Filipino seafarers.
“We will provide all the support and guidance the bereaved family needs during this difficult time. As the President has consistently reminded us, we must always take care of the families of Filipino seafarers,” Cacdac said.
The DMW said it was coordinating with the shipowner and relevant authorities to monitor developments and establish the circumstances surrounding the explosion.