Tanker MIDVOLGA-2 Attacked in the Black Sea

The Russian-flagged tanker MIDVOLGA-2, carrying a cargo of sunflower oil, was attacked while transiting the Black Sea. The incident occurred approximately 80 nautical miles off the coast of Türkiye as the vessel sailed from Russia toward Georgia. Initial reports indicate that the vessel was struck by what is believed to be an unmanned aerial drone. Despite the impact, the tanker did not issue a distress signal and remained operational. All 13 crew members were confirmed safe, and the vessel continued its voyage under its own power toward the port of Sinop for inspection and further evaluation. The attack on MIDVOLGA-2 adds to a growing number of recent incidents involving Russian-linked tankers in the region, heightening concerns over maritime security and the overall risk environment in the Black Sea. Coastal authorities and maritime stakeholders remain on alert as investigations into these incidents continue.

Black Sea Ship Insurance Jumps After Drone Strikes on Sanctioned Tankers

War-risk insurance for ships sailing in the Black Sea has risen sharply after two sanctioned oil tankers were hit by naval drones. The vessels, linked to Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet,” were heading toward the port of Novorossiysk when the strikes happened. Following the incident, insurers raised their rates for ships entering the region. Coverage for a week-long trip to Ukrainian ports increased to about 0.5% of a ship’s value. For ships calling at Russian ports, the cost climbed even higher, reaching between 0.65% and 0.8%. Insurers say the new prices reflect growing concerns that similar attacks could happen again.

New OFW Lounge at NAIA Terminal 1 Officially Opens

The new OFW Lounge at NAIA Terminal 1 was formally inaugurated today, a significant step in enhancing the travel experience of Overseas Filipino Workers and reaffirming the government’s commitment to “Serbisyong May Puso.” The ceremonial ribbon-cutting was led by First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, joined by Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Atty. Hans Leo J. Cacdac, OWWA Administrator Atty. Patricia Yvonne M. Caunan, Pasay City Mayor Imelda Gallardo Calixto-Rubiano, and NNIC Chairman & CEO Ramon S. Ang. Positioned as the government’s first holiday offering for OFWs, the newly opened lounge provides a more spacious, comfortable, and welcoming environment for Filipino workers departing through Terminal 1. With expanded amenities and improved services, the facility aims to offer greater convenience and a more dignified travel experience for the country’s modern-day heroes. The initiative underscores the administration’s continued efforts to uplift the welfare of OFWs and ensure they receive the care and support they deserve—from departure to their safe return home.

Senegal Rushes to Prevent Oil Spill After Turkish Tanker Emergency

Senegal has confirmed that emergency response teams are actively working to stabilize a Turkish operated tanker that experienced major flooding off the coast of Dakar, prompting urgent efforts to avert a possible oil spill. The incident involved the Panama-flagged M/T Mersin, which issued a distress signal after water began entering its engine room late last week. According to maritime officials, all crew members were safely evacuated as tugboats and naval units arrived at the scene. With personnel out of immediate danger, authorities shifted focus toward preventing environmental contamination, deploying containment booms and mobilizing anti-pollution specialists to secure the vessel’s surroundings. Initial assessments indicate that the tanker suffered significant water ingress, causing the stern to sit unusually low and raising concern about the integrity of fuel tanks on board. Firefighting and salvage teams have been working to pump out water, evaluate structural damage, and assess the stability of the ship before any cargo transfer operations can begin. The incident has triggered heightened environmental vigilance, as the waters off Dakar support both marine ecosystems and coastal economic activity. Even a moderate spill could have severe effects on fisheries, tourism, and local livelihoods. Officials emphasized that preventing leakage remains the top priority as efforts continue around the clock. Senegalese authorities stated that the cause of the flooding has not yet been determined. Investigators are examining whether the issue stemmed from mechanical failure, compromised hull integrity, or another internal malfunction. Officials stress that no evidence of external damage has been found so far. The emergency marks one of Senegal’s most serious maritime incidents in recent years, drawing attention to the risks posed by aging or poorly maintained tankers transiting West African waters. The next 24–48 hours will be critical as teams work to secure the vessel, prevent pollution, and avert wider environmental consequences.