Manila: The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) received 15 Filipino seafarers rescued from Singapore-flagged bulk carrier MV Devon Bay, which capsized about 141 nautical miles west of Pangasinan, within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone on Jan. 23.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DMW said in a social media post Monday that Officer-in-Charge and Undersecretary Felicitas Bay led the DMW-Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) team in welcoming the rescued Filipino crew aboard the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua. The post mentioned that the 15 rescued seafarers are in generally stable condition. Additionally, the remains of two crew members were received by the DMW OWWA team and the licensed manning agency. Four crew members remain missing, and the Philippine Coast Guard assured that search and rescue operations are still ongoing.

The DMW assured continuing support for the survivors, including welfare assistance and initial medical support, as it closely coordinates with the victims' families. It said the arrival was coordinated with the PCG, which transported the survivors and the remains of two deceased crew members to Manila.

The vessel, with 21 Filipino crew members, carrying iron ore from Zamboanga del Norte and en route to Guangdong, China, reportedly capsized about 141 nautical miles west of Pangasinan. Chinese authorities also launched a joint rescue operation near Scarborough Shoal, deploying military aircraft and Coast Guard ships to assist in the efforts.

The DMW assures that it continues to closely monitor the situation and coordinate with relevant agencies to protect the welfare of the seafarers and their families, while reaffirming its commitment to the safety and protection of all Filipino workers abroad.