Paulo H. Pregol, priest of the Apostolatus Maris Seafarers center, noted the strength and resilience of seafarers' families in the face of all tragedy. The Secretary Enrique Manalo and the Department of Foreign Affairs also expressed their appreciation for efforts to ensure the safe return of seafarers, as well as support from Secretary Jimmi Bautista and the Department of Transportation. The President provided clear guidance that the DMW should already begin the initial phase of the crisis, focusing on support for families and providing them with necessary assistance.
"We must be able to empathize and lift them up again," stressed the President. The seafarers received financial aid, certificates of training, and care packages from the DMW, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. One of the representatives of the seafarers expressed gratitude to the President and all participating agencies, highlighting the diplomatic efforts of the Marcos administration with the Sultanate of Oman, which played a key role in their liberation.
After 428 days of captivity in Yemen, 17 crew members of the M/V Galaxy Leader received a directive from President Bongbong Marcos to Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Hans Leo Cacdac on the provision of means of sustenance and assistance in employment. This revelation followed the report from Secretary Cacdac during the thanksgiving mass and luncheon for seafarers and their families at the DMW office in Mandaluyong City.
The President emphasized: "Let us help them rise again." The seafarers, together with their families and representatives of their agencies, were congratulated with gratitude. The message was delivered.
