Eight Filipino crew members who survived the MV Eternity C attack have arrived safely in Manila, but 13 others remain unaccounted for. The incident highlights the growing dangers faced by Filipino crew members in international waters, particularly in the conflict-stricken Red Sea.
Just days earlier, 17 other Filipino seafarers from MV Magic Seas were also brought home after surviving a separate Houthi attack. That vessel was struck in the same region but managed to avoid casualties. Their safe return was celebrated, but it offered only a brief moment of relief before the more tragic case of the MV Eternity C emerged.
Filipino Crew Members Reunite With Families
The eight men returned on July 16, landing at Ninoy Aquino International Airport. They had been rescued after the MV Eternity C was hit by Houthi drones and explosives on July 7 and 8. The attacks happened in the southern part of the Red Sea.
Upon arrival, the survivors were met by government officials and support staff. They received medical checks, psychological support, and financial assistance.
Their return brought relief—but for the families of 13 others, the waiting continues. Those missing may have been lost at sea, or possibly taken by Houthi forces. Rescue operations were paused after security warnings made further missions too dangerous.
Philippine authorities say they’re in touch with the ship’s owner and international agencies to help locate the remaining crew.
Houthi Attacks Disrupt Global Shipping
The Red Sea is one of the world’s busiest shipping routes. Around 12 to 15 percent of global trade passes through it.
Since late 2023, repeated attacks by Houthi rebels have caused major shipping firms to reroute vessels around Africa. These longer routes add up to ten extra days at sea and raise fuel costs significantly.
The added expense is steep—some trips now cost up to a million dollars more just in fuel. Insurance costs have also jumped. Some companies have stopped covering Red Sea travel entirely.
In the case of MV Eternity C, the ship reportedly had no war-risk coverage, leaving many questions about the protection given to crew working in high-risk zones.
Limited Naval Support and Mounting Risk
Naval forces from the EU and the U.S. are still active in the region. But the rebels have adapted their tactics. They now use faster drones and swarm-style attacks, which are harder to defend against.
Several ships have been damaged or sunk in recent months. At least a dozen crew members from different nationalities have lost their lives since the start of the year.
The Philippine government has thanked Saudi Arabia for assisting with the quick processing of travel documents for the rescued Filipinos. Officials say efforts to secure the release—or recovery—of the missing crew are ongoing.
