OWWA activates 24/7 emergency assistance for Filipino seafarers

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has issued an advisory to Filipino seafarers and their families, emphasizing the availability of 24/7 assistance for emergencies, welfare issues, and maritime safety concerns. This measure comes in response to ongoing security threats in high-risk maritime zones, including the Black Sea, the Strait of Hormuz, and the Gulf of Aden.

Seafarers can reach the agency’s Operations Center via the 24/7 hotline 1348. Additional contact methods include Viber and WhatsApp at +63 927 824 5975, and email at owwacares@owwa.gov.ph. OWWA encourages individuals to seek help immediately rather than waiting for situations to escalate.

When requesting aid, families are advised to provide the seafarer’s name, vessel name, current location, manning agency, and a brief description of the issue. The agency also cautioned against posting sensitive personal documents, such as passports or employment contracts, in public comment sections. Matters involving maritime safety, deployment, or employer compliance will be referred to the Department of Migrant Workers for further action.