MANILA — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Friday (14 June 2024) condemned the Houthis’ attack on the merchant vessel MV Tutor in the Red Sea.
Owned by a Greek company and flying the Liberian flag, the ship was carrying Filipino crew members when it was struck by a Houthi unmanned surface vessel (USV) on June 12.
The DFA confirmed the incident in a statement, though it did not specify the exact number of Filipino nationals on board. It pledged to take necessary actions to ensure the safety and well-being of the crew and to seek justice.
“We urge all UN member states to safeguard the human rights of seafarers. Our commitment to the safety and welfare of Filipino seafarers globally remains unwavering,” the DFA stated.
According to the United States Central Command, the vessel had most recently been in Russia before the attack. The USV impact caused extensive flooding and damage to the engine room.
(el Amigo/MNM)
