Issue 26/01 28 January 2026

By: Ruben Del Rosario, President, Del Rosario Pandiphil Inc., 28 January 2026 

This update reiterates previous guidance provided in response to ongoing threats in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The below are steps to be taken in compliance with the Department of Migrant Workers' (DMW) regulations in the passage of Filipino seafarers in war/high-risk areas.

Reroute Ships Immediately

Divert all vessels with Filipino crew away from ITF/IBF-designated warlike and high-risk areas, especially the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

Review and strictly follow all DMW and Department Orders related to ship routing and crew safety. Non-compliance will result in penalties.

Honor Crew's Right to Refuse

Inform Filipino seafarers of their right to refuse assignments in dangerous zones.

If a crew member invokes this right, arrange for their safe and immediate repatriation.

This right may be invoked by the seafarer at anytime even if he had previously consented to sailing in the area.

Report Actions Promptly

Email the Sea-based Accreditation Bureau (sbhighrisks@dmw.gov.ph) with:

  *  Names of principals/employers which rerouted ships

  *  Names of Filipino seafarers who refused to sail

  *  Names of those who continued after being briefed on risks

Prohibit Deployment to Attacked Ships

Do not assign Filipino crew to any ship that:

  *  Was previously attacked

  *  Is currently or planning to enter high-risk zones

  *  Has been targeted by armed groups (e.g., Houthi rebels)

This applies regardless of when the incident occurred.

Prohibition on Passenger and Cruise Ships in High-Risk Zones

Do not allow Filipino seafarers to serve on passenger or cruise ships that will sail through the Red Sea or Gulf of Aden, regardless of circumstances.

This prohibition is absolute and applies to all passenger and cruise vessels in these designated high-risk areas.

Appoint a Crisis Management Officer (SWACO)

Designate a Seafarers' Welfare and Crisis Management Officer (SWACO) for  your agency.

SWACO responsibilities:

  *  Coordinate with authorities during maritime crises

  *  Monitor incidents and ensure prompt, accurate reporting

  *  Lead safety and crisis-awareness training

It is reiterated that Immediate and strict compliance with the above is required. Violations may result in license suspension, cancellation, and other penalties by the DMW.

For full details, refer to the official advisory: [DMW Advisory No. 21

Series of 2025 - High risk/war risk area]