MANILA – After 14 months in captivity, 17 Filipino crew members of the cargo ship Galaxy Leader are finally coming home. The group, released by Houthi rebels, is scheduled to arrive at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport at 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 23, 2025, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
DFA Undersecretary Eduardo Jose de Vega confirmed that the department facilitated the seafarers’ repatriation, covering their pocket money and travel expenses upon their arrival in Oman.
“The Department is working on their immediate repatriation to Manila so that they could reunite with their long-suffering families as soon as possible,” the DFA said in a statement.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. also announced the seafarers’ release earlier in the day, expressing relief that the group, along with eight other foreign nationals, was freed.
The DFA extended its gratitude to the Sultanate of Oman for its crucial mediation and support in securing the safe release of the hostages.
“Our successful efforts despite all the challenges prove that quiet diplomacy works. The men and women of the Department of Foreign Affairs will remain true to our calling to serve our country and people,” the DFA added.
The seafarers had been held hostage since late 2023 but are now set to reunite with their families.
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