The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is investigating licensed manning agencies and their foreign principals or shipowners following attacks on commercial vessels carrying Filipino seafarers in the Northern Black Sea. Authorities are determining whether government directives, deployment restrictions, and safety requirements were properly followed.

The investigation follows a series of reported incidents involving vessels with Filipino crew members that were struck by drones or missiles in the Black Sea region. Details surrounding some of the attacks, including the type and origin of the weapons involved, remain subject to confirmation by authorities.

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac said the DMW will examine whether the concerned manning agencies and shipowners complied with existing government regulations governing the deployment and movement of Filipino seafarers in high-risk areas, particularly the Northern Black Sea. The department will also determine whether required safety measures and government instructions were followed.

The DMW is expected to assess the circumstances of each incident and the actions taken by the agencies and shipowners before and during the vessels’ operations in the affected area. Any findings on possible violations and corresponding administrative action will depend on the results of the department’s investigation.