The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) expressed immense relief and joy as 17 Filipino seafarers returned home after being held captive by Houthi rebels for over a year. The crew of the cargo ship Galaxy Leader arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on January 23, 2025, following their release on January 22. The DFA praised the seafarers for their resilience and strength during their ordeal.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo personally welcomed the seafarers, emphasizing the end of a long wait and the fulfillment of prayers. He commended their spirit and teamwork, which helped them endure the challenging situation. Manalo and his colleagues committed to supporting the seafarers’ recovery and well-being.
Upon arrival, the seafarers were greeted by their families, marking an emotional reunion. Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Eduardo Jose De Vega noted that while the seafarers appeared well, they would need time to fully recover from their experience. He highlighted the collaborative efforts of various government departments, particularly the Department of Migrant Workers, in maintaining contact with the families throughout the 428 days of captivity.
Philippine Ambassador to Oman Raul Hernandez revealed that the release coincided with the Israel-Hamas ceasefire announcement. The seafarers were transferred to Oman, where they underwent medical checkups and document reviews before being flown back to the Philippines. The DFA expressed gratitude to the Sultanate of Oman for its crucial role in facilitating the release.
The Houthis released the Filipino seafarers along with eight other foreign nationals in support of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. The Galaxy Leader, a Bahamas-flagged vessel, was seized by Houthi fighters on November 19, 2023, while en route from Turkey to India. At the time, the ship was chartered by Japan’s Nippon Yusen Kaisha.
The Japanese Foreign Ministry expressed relief at the crew’s release, acknowledging the efforts of the G7 and other countries in urging the Houthis to free the crew and the vessel. Japan emphasized the importance of respecting the right and freedom of navigation and pledged to continue diplomatic efforts to stop Houthi attacks and secure the vessel’s release.
Israel’s Deputy Chief of Mission to the Philippines, Ester Buzgan, shared in the joy of the seafarers’ return, drawing parallels to her own experiences with hostages. She expressed happiness for the Filipino families reunited with their loved ones.
The US Department of State welcomed the release but noted that the Houthis still hold the MV Galaxy Leader and continue to detain hundreds of local staff members within Yemen under poor conditions. The US urged the Houthis to cease all attacks in the Red Sea and release all detainees immediately.