Philippine Crewed Vessel Targeted
See video from navigational bridge in Telegram
A Philippine-crewed cargo ship, the MV Tutor, was recently attacked by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea on June 12, 2024. This incident, reported by ABS-CBN News, highlights the ongoing security risks faced by merchant vessels navigating these volatile waters.The vessel, carrying 22 Filipino crew members, was reportedly struck by missiles and an explosive drone. Fortunately, 21 crew members were rescued, with one remaining missing as of June 20th. The MV Tutor is presumed sunk, further complicating search efforts.
Heightened Tensions Fuel Attacks
This attack is part of a larger trend of Houthi rebels targeting commercial vessels in the Red Sea. The Houthis are locked in a long-running civil war with Yemen’s Saudi-backed government, and these attacks are seen as a way to disrupt regional trade and exert pressure on the Saudi-led coalition.
Philippine Government Responds
The Philippine government has condemned the attack and is working with international authorities to ensure the safety of its citizens and investigate the incident. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is also providing assistance to the families of the affected crew members.
Impact on Filipino Seafarers
This attack serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by Filipino seafarers, who make up a significant portion of the global maritime workforce. The Philippine government will likely push for increased security measures in the Red Sea and urge international cooperation to deter future attacks on commercial vessels.
A Call for Continued Vigilance
The attack on the MV Tutor underscores the ongoing security threats in the Red Sea. While the specific details of this incident are still being pieced together, it remains clear that robust security measures and international cooperation are crucial to ensure the safety of maritime trade and seafarers in the region.
