THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced on Saturday that four Philippine-registered vessels have safely exited the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint at the center of the escalating US-Iran conflict.
The vessels-MV Lyng Trader, MV Western Doncaster, MV Vivian Trader, and MV Eva Fuji-departed the strait between June 24 and July 1. All 81 Filipino seafarers aboard were reported safe.
‘Most have resumed their regular seafaring duties, while others have taken the opportunity to return home to their families,’ the DFA said.
Latest vessel movements
MV Lyng Trader (oil/chemical tanker): After a port call in the UAE, now en route to Singapore.
MV Western Doncaster (general cargo): Anchored near Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
MV Vivian Trader (bulk carrier): From UAE to Colombo, now bound for Portland, Australia.
MV Eva Fuji (chemical/oil tanker): Called at Bahrain and UAE in June, crossed the Singapore Strait, currently en route to Zhoushan, China.
International evacuation efforts
The DFA earlier petitioned Iran for safe passage of Philippine ships following the outbreak of conflict on February 28, 2026. The United Nations and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) facilitated the evacuation framework that has so far enabled the safe transit of 136 vessels and about 2,900 seafarers.
‘The Department recognizes the critical role of the United Nations and the International Maritime Organization in safeguarding civilian shipping and seafarers, and in establishing the evacuation framework,’ the DFA said.
Pinoy seafarers still at risk
Evacuation operations were suspended after the lapse of the temporary US-Iran ceasefire, leaving some Filipino crew stranded in the Gulf. Since late February, seven Filipino seafarers have been injured and one remains missing following drone and missile strikes in the strait.
About 3,000 Filipino crew aboard 400 vessels remain trapped in volatile waters, while more than 3,718 have successfully moved to safer shipping lanes, according to the Department of Migrant Workers.
The DFA said it continues to monitor developments and is committed to ensuring the safety and eventual repatriation of all affected seafarers.