Senator Erwin Tulfo called for urgent measures to protect about 24 Filipino seafarers currently aboard Russian vessels amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.
He plans to meet with the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Migrant Workers this week to discuss steps to ensure the safety and welfare of the affected seamen.
Tulfo emphasized verifying whether the seafarers were directly hired or deployed through local manning agencies, as this affects who is responsible for their protection.
Ukrainian Ambassador Yuliia Fediv previously briefed Tulfo on the seafarers’ situation during a courtesy call.
The senator highlighted that immediate repatriation may be necessary for those in grave danger.
Source: PhilNews24 | February 16, 2026
