Manila: The close relationship of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. with Middle East leaders and the presence of Filipinos in the region contributed to the release of the 17 Filipino seafarers held hostage by Houthi rebels in Yemen for 428 days, a foreign affairs official said on Saturday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Migrant Affairs Eduardo De Vega expressed gratitude to Oman during the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City, emphasizing the positive outcome of diplomatic efforts. De Vega highlighted the special friendship fostered by the President with regional leaders, attributing the swift release to the high regard Middle East countries have for Filipino workers.

Philippine officials engaged in quiet diplomacy, which led to a breakthrough in negotiations before the assumption of US President Donald Trump. The 17 Filipino seafarers arrived in the Philippines from Muscat, Oman via Oman Air flight at 9:31 p.m. on Thursday and were accommodated at a government-booked hotel for health monitoring.

De Vega mentioned that the seafarers would be monitored for any post-traumatic stress disorder and would be transported to their respective provinces after their stay in the hotel. Most of them are not from Metro Manila, so arrangements have been made for their safe return home.

Department of Health Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo stated that the crew members would receive medical and psychosocial support due to the trauma endured during their captivity. Domingo assured comprehensive care, acknowledging the psychological impact of their 428-day ordeal.

President Marcos expressed appreciation to His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said of Oman for the successful mediation that facilitated the release and safe passage of the Filipino seafarers. The Houthis had hijacked the cargo vessel Galaxy Leader near Hodeidah in November 2023, taking 25 crew members, including the 17 Filipinos, hostage.