MANILA — The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed that the Filipino seafarer injured in the recent Houthi attack in the Red Sea has fully recovered and will be repatriated to the Philippines on Friday.

In a report to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, who is currently in Djibouti, East Africa, said all necessary arrangements have been made for the seafarer’s safe return.

Cacdac also extended direct support to the bereaved family of another Filipino crew member who was killed during the incident. The family joined the DMW delegation in Djibouti and expressed gratitude to the Marcos administration for providing full assistance through the department.

The DMW chief arrived in Djibouti on October 8 and was welcomed by Foreign Minister Abdoulkader Houssein Omar. Cacdac conveyed the Philippine government’s appreciation for Djibouti’s swift response in assisting the Filipino seafarers affected by the attack, many of whom sought refuge in the country.

“We appreciate the Government of Djibouti for its compassion and support. The presence of Foreign Minister Abdoulkader and the ongoing assistance from our Embassy in Cairo have been essential in ensuring our seafarers are cared for and returned home,” Cacdac said.

According to the DMW, the Philippine Embassy in Cairo, led by Chargé d’Affaires Crystal Dunuan, continues to coordinate with Djiboutian authorities to expedite the repatriation of the deceased seafarer’s remains, expected to arrive in the Philippines within the next two weeks.

“We are hopeful that processing by the Djiboutian authorities will proceed more quickly, especially with the support of the Foreign Minister earlier this morning,” Cacdac added.

The seafarer’s wife will remain in Djibouti until she can accompany her husband’s remains home, while DMW Labor Attaché Hector Cruz will join her on the return flight.

Cacdac and his team also met with 20 members of the Filipino community in Djibouti to discuss DMW programs and services and listen to their concerns regarding employment, welfare, and reintegration.

The DMW said the mission highlights the Marcos administration’s continuing commitment to protect the welfare of overseas Filipino workers, especially those stationed in high-risk areas.