Two Filipino seafarers aboard the Liberia-flagged bulk carrier M/V Rostrum Optima have safely returned to the Philippines after their vessel was reportedly involved in a drone strike incident while operating in the Black Sea.

The seafarers arrived at NAIA Terminal 3 on 4 August 2026, where they were welcomed by representatives from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the Manila International Airport Authority Medical Team. They received initial medical assessment, airport assistance, and financial support upon their arrival.

Representatives of their manning agency, Hanseatic Shipping Phils., Inc., also met the returning crew members. According to the DMW, the agency was directed to arrange physical and psychological evaluations, as well as post-arrival debriefing sessions to help support the seafarers following the incident.

The DMW reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Filipino seafarers and reminded licensed manning agencies and their accredited principals to strictly observe safety measures and established protocols for vessels operating in high-risk areas, including the Black Sea, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.