Iloilo: The provincial government, through its Public Employment Services Office (PESO), is ready to assist the three Ilonggo seafarers on board the Singaporean-flagged cargo vessel, M/V Devon Bay, which capsized near the Scarborough Shoal last week. 'As per coordination with our OFW (overseas Filipino worker) presidents, municipal and barangay PESO managers, we have profiled three Ilonggos on board the vessel that capsized. We are happy to inform that they are safe,' Iloilo PESO manager Cynthia Dario said in an interview on Friday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the seafarers were from the municipalities of Janiuay, Estancia, and Barotac Viejo. Dario mentioned that they have yet to receive information if the three survivors are already in the Philippines. Once they return, they will be requested to visit the PESO for assessment to determine if they qualify for the PHP10,000 financial assistance for repatriated OFWs. 'We will also ask them about their other needs that can be provided by the provincial government because we have our Task Force Bulig Ilonggo that was established by Governor Arthur Defensor,' she said.

The province can extend livelihood assistance under the Expanded Micro Business Recovery Assistance during Crisis and Emergency (EMBRACE) program if they are qualified. Meanwhile, Dario stated that the provincial government is also willing to assist seafarers who were onboard the MV Trisha Kerstin 3 that sank off the waters of Basilan early morning of Monday. She noted they can avail of medical assistance through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development and financial assistance, subject to the assessment of PESO. Two Ilonggos were reported onboard the vessel that capsized while on its way to Jolo, Sulu.