Manila coordinates repatriation of surviving crew, remains after deadly security incident Last updated: September 03, 2026 | 11:052 MIN READOil tankers transit through the Strait of Hormuz. Photo for illustrative purposes onlyPhoto/ReutersThe two seafarers have been among the Filipino crew aboard the Saudi-operated oil tanker SIDR, which was involved in a security incident on August 31 while transiting the Strait of Hormuz.Saudi Arabia’s national shipping company Bahri has confirmed the incident and the deaths of the two Filipino crew members."The identities of the deceased are being withheld out of respect for their families and until appropriate notification and coordination procedures are completed," wrote the Philippine Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) in a statement.Get updated faster and for FREE: Download the Gulf News app now - simply click here.Philippine government steps inThe DMW has disclosed that it mobilised its relevant offices to assist the affected Filipino crew and their families.The response has followed a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure the safety and welfare of Filipinos affected by the ongoing security situation in the Middle East.DMW secretary Hans Cacdac has instructed officials to provide immediate and appropriate assistance to those affected.Crew repatriationThe DMW has been working with the Department of Foreign Affairs, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, Philippine Embassy, and Migrant Workers Office in Oman, along with other concerned government agencies.Officials have been coordinating with the vessel’s principal, its licensed manning agency, and relevant authorities to facilitate the earliest possible repatriation of the Filipino crew.Medical, welfare, and other necessary assistance is also being provided.“The DMW continues to closely monitor the condition and situation of the remaining Filipino crew members and is coordinating with Philippine government posts and relevant authorities in the region to ensure their safe and immediate return to the Philippines,” stated the DMW.Remains to be brought homeAuthorities have also been working on arrangements for the proper handling and repatriation of the remains of the two seafarers who died.The process is being coordinated with the relevant parties as the Philippine government works to support the families during the difficult period.Families to receive compensation and insuranceThe DMW has mentioned that it is ensuring that the families of the deceased receive the assistance and benefits due to them under their employment contracts and applicable Philippine and international maritime regulations.These include benefits, compensation, and insurance proceeds, among other entitlements.“The government will continue to mobilise all available resources to assist them and ensure that no affected Filipino seafarer or family is left without government support,” said Cacdac.Condolences extendedMeanwhile, the DMW has expressed its deepest sympathies and condolences to the families and loved ones of the two Filipino seafarers.The agency has assured that it will continue to monitor developments and coordinate with authorities and other relevant parties to ensure assistance reaches the affected crew and families.Also In This PackageTricia is a reporter and anchor whose work focuses on people, policy, expatriate communities, and Filipinos at home and abroad. Her reporting spans national affairs, overseas Filipinos, and major developments across the Middle East. She holds a degree in Broadcasting and has contributed to leading media organisations. With experience across television, print, and digital platforms, Tricia continues to develop a clear, credible voice in a rapidly evolving global media landscape.Related Topics:Get Updates on Topics You ChooseUp Next