Two Filipino seafarers injured during the reported attack on the Cameroon-flagged oil and product tanker M/V Blue have safely returned to the Philippines, marking another step in the government's ongoing efforts to assist Filipino seafarers affected by maritime security incidents abroad.

The two seafarers arrived at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 on the evening of July 15, 2026, aboard Turkish Airlines Flight TK084. They were welcomed by officials from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), led by Officer-in-Charge Assistant Secretary Augusto San Diego III, together with representatives from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), the Manila International Airport Authority Medical Team, the Bureau of Immigration, and the New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation. Upon their arrival, they received immediate assistance before being turned over to their licensed manning agency.

According to the DMW, the injured seafarers were provided with financial assistance from both the DMW and OWWA. The department also instructed their licensed manning agency to ensure the continuation of their medical treatment and psychosocial support as they recover from their injuries. The agency further reported that three other Filipino crew members who sustained burn injuries during the incident had already been evacuated from the vessel earlier and remain under medical care at onshore healthcare facilities.

The M/V Blue, carrying 18 Filipino crew members, reportedly came under an apparent drone attack while transiting the Black Sea on July 8, 2026. Reports indicated that the attack caused significant damage to the vessel\'s stern, including its propeller and engine room, and sparked a fire that was later brought under control. Despite the damage, all crew members were accounted for following the incident.

The safe return of the two injured seafarers highlights the continuing coordination among Philippine government agencies, welfare organizations, and licensed manning agencies in providing assistance to Filipino maritime workers affected by security incidents at sea. Authorities continue to monitor the condition of the remaining injured crew members while ensuring that appropriate medical care and welfare support are extended throughout their recovery.