Manila, May 26 -- The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has intensified monitoring of Filipino seafarers aboard vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz as regional tension in the Middle East continues to escalate.

In a news release Monday evening, the DMW said this is to ensure the safety and welfare of Filipino seafarers on board these ships.

"As of May 25, 2026, a total of 59 vessels carrying 1,834 Filipino crew members have crossed the Strait of Hormuz from April to May this year. These include oil tankers, cargo ships, container vessels, and other commercial vessels operating within the region," the DMW said.

The agency said it is currently tracking 17 vessels carrying close to 300 Filipino seafarers that may attempt to pas...