40 Filipino seafarers safe after Iran attacks two ships in Strait of Hormuz

The Philippine government on Monday confirmed that all 40 Filipino seafarers aboard two commercial vessels attacked by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz are safe.

According to a report by ABS-CBN News, Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said 21 Filipinos, including the ship's captain, were on board the Singaporean-flagged MV Ever Lovely, while another 19 Filipinos were serving on the Panamanian-flagged MV Kiku.

Castro said neither vessel suffered casualties despite the attacks and both ships remain seaworthy. "None of the 21 Filipino crew members, including the captain, was injured. The vessel remains seaworthy and continues its voyage. It is expected to dock in Singapore on July 5," she said, referring to the MV Ever Lovely, as reported by ABS-CBN.

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She added that the MV Kiku also remains seaworthy and that none of its crew members was injured during the voyage.

Thousands of Filipino seafarers still in Gulf

The Palace said that as of June 29, around 2,100 Filipino seafarers aboard 85 vessels had safely exited the Persian Gulf. However, nearly 3,800 Filipino crew members remain deployed on ships operating in the region as security risks continue.

The Strait of Hormuz has remained under pressure after Iran imposed restrictions on shipping following US and Israeli air strikes earlier this year. Although there have been efforts to ease tensions after the ceasefire, commercial vessels continue to face risks while passing through the narrow waterway.

Seafarers caught in regional conflict

The latest incident highlights the growing dangers faced by seafarers, who have increasingly become unintended victims of the conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel.

Commercial ships carrying civilian crews have found themselves operating in a high-risk zone despite having no role in the military confrontation. In one of the deadliest incidents during the crisis, three Indian nationals working aboard a merchant vessel were killed in a US strike near the Strait of Hormuz, underscoring the risks faced by international seafarers navigating the region.

Global trade and energy supply under pressure

The prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz has also raised concerns about global energy security. The strategic waterway handles nearly one-fifth of the world's oil shipments, making it one of the most important maritime trade routes.

Any disruption to shipping through the strait affects global supply chains, increases transportation costs and pushes up oil prices. Analysts warn that prolonged instability in the region could further strain energy markets and international trade, while exposing merchant ships and their multinational crews to continued security threats.