Filipino seafarer killed in Persian Gulf tanker explosion

PHOTO: A Filipino seafarer was killed when a crude oil tanker was reportedly hit by a drone off Bahrain, in the Persian Gulf. The incident occurred on Nov. 5 (Thursday), and was confirmed by officials on Nov. 7 (Saturday). There were 21 other Filipino crew members aboard the vessel, who were reported “safe and unharmed”.

MANILA – A Filipino seafarer was killed following an explosion aboard an oil tanker in the Persian Gulf, raising fresh concerns about the safety of Filipino maritime workers operating in conflict-sensitive waters.

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed that the incident occurred aboard the MT Velos Sapphire, a Marshall Islands-flagged vessel travelling toward Sitrah, Bahrain, on November 5 (Thursday).

Officials did not name the victim.

Initial reports suggested that a drone attack may have caused the explosion.

However, authorities emphasised that the precise cause remains unverified and that investigations are ongoing.

Twenty-one other Filipino crew members aboard the vessel were reported safe and unharmed.

The ship's licensed manning agency notified the deceased worker's family after receiving official confirmation from the shipowner. The company has also pledged support and assistance to the bereaved relatives.

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said the government was taking immediate steps to provide the family with assistance and guidance.

The DMW is coordinating with the shipowner and relevant international authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure that the affected family receives the necessary support.

The incident comes amid continuing security concerns in the Middle East, where Filipino seafarers and land-based workers face potential exposure to regional hostilities.

The Philippines is one of the world's largest suppliers of maritime workers, with thousands of Filipino seafarers employed aboard international commercial vessels, including oil tankers and cargo ships.

The death underscores the risks faced by Filipino workers whose employment requires them to operate in strategically important shipping corridors.

Filipino seafarers contribute significantly to the country's economy. Their safety requires stronger maritime monitoring, employer accountability, emergency response arrangements and international cooperation.