The Philippine Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has pledged full legal and welfare assistance to the family of a Filipino seafarer reported missing after a UAE-flagged tugboat was struck by missiles and sank in the Strait of Hormuz last month, officials said Tuesday.
George Francis Miranda, an oiler aboard the M/V Mussafah 2, went missing after the vessel was hit on March 6 while reportedly responding to assist another distressed ship in the strategically vital waterway, amid heightened tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran.
DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac personally visited Miranda’s family on Sunday to convey the government’s concern and reaffirm its commitment to supporting them through the ongoing investigation into the maritime incident.
“On behalf of President Bongbong Marcos, we extend our solidarity, help, and support, including legal assistance,” Cacdac said in a Facebook post, adding that he met with Miranda’s wife, Chris, during the visit.
The department said it would coordinate with legal counsel versed in UAE maritime and labor laws to help protect Miranda’s rights and entitlements, as well as those of his beneficiaries.
Cacdac said the DMW is also working closely with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to pursue appropriate diplomatic representations with the UAE government and other relevant foreign authorities, in accordance with established protocols.
“These efforts aim to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure a fair and thorough investigation,” he said. “The family will be kept properly informed and supported throughout the process.”
Beyond Miranda’s case, the DMW said it is actively monitoring the welfare of Filipino seafarers aboard vessels operating in the Persian Gulf and is coordinating with manning agencies to ensure their health, safety, and security amid the continuing regional conflict in the Middle East.
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, has seen a surge in vessel attacks in recent years linked to the broader conflict involving Iran-backed forces and Western-allied nations.
