Filipino seafarer killed in Persian Gulf tanker explosion

A Filipino seafarer died following an explosion aboard the MT Velos Sapphire, a Marshall Islands-flagged oil products tanker, in the Persian Gulf on 5 November 2026. The vessel was en route to Sitrah, Bahrain, when the blast occurred.

While initial reports suggested a possible drone attack may have caused the explosion, authorities have not yet verified the exact cause. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) reported that 21 other Filipino crew members were safe and unharmed. No environmental damage or pollution has been reported following the incident.

Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac stated that the Philippine government will provide necessary support and guidance to the deceased seafarer's family, citing a standing order from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to assist the families of Filipino crew members. The DMW is currently coordinating with the shipowner and relevant authorities to monitor developments and determine the circumstances of the blast.