By Junex Doronio
MANILA — Despite being given medical assistance out of “humanitarian reasons,” the Philippine government still wants to rescue Filipino crew members who are being held by the Houthi rebels.
This was disclosed on Friday (02 Aug 2024) by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), saying the Sana’a government in Yemen has provided medical assistance to sick Filipino crew members.
It was learned that Sana’a is the capital and the largest city in Yemen. Its authorities control the Houthis.
The DFA informed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on July 30 that Honorary Consul to Yemen Mohammad Saleh Al-Jamal confirmed that several Filipino crew members of the MV Galaxy Leader are experiencing significant health issues, including malaria symptoms.
Al-Jamal reportedly sought assistance from Sana’a authorities for their release, citing humanitarian reasons because of their declining health condition.
“The Sana’a government responded that the case depends on external decisions; hence, negotiations and discussions are plausible for their fate and possible release,” the DFA bared.
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