MANILA – The Philippine government, through the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), has reiterated its commitment to assist the family of a Filipino seafarer who went missing after a vessel attack in the Strait of Hormuz.
George Francis Miranda was among the crew of the UAE-registered tugboat M/V Mussafah 2, which sank after reportedly being hit by missiles on March 6 while aiding another vessel in distress.
Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac met with Miranda’s family to convey the government’s concern and assure them of ongoing support, including legal, welfare, and diplomatic assistance.
He emphasized that the DMW would work with legal experts knowledgeable in UAE maritime and labor regulations to help secure any entitlements due to Miranda and his family.
The agency is also coordinating with the Department of Foreign Affairs to pursue appropriate diplomatic measures with the UAE and other concerned parties, ensuring a thorough and transparent investigation.
The incident occurred amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, prompting authorities to intensify efforts to determine what happened.
The DMW said it would keep the family informed at every step, while continuing to monitor the condition of Filipino seafarers deployed in the Persian Gulf and working with manning agencies to safeguard their security.
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