Manila, March 4 -- The safe release of 17 Filipino seafarers held captive by rebels in a foreign land stands as a testament to the Marcos administration's care and concern for overseas Filipino workers and the effectiveness of its diplomatic initiatives in dealing with international crisis.

Held captive by Houthi rebels in Yemen for 428 days, the 17 Filipino seafarers finally regained their freedom on Jan. 22, 2025, to the delight of their families and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. whose administration worked tirelessly to ensure their safety and release.

"It is with utmost joy that ... I announce the safe release of all 17 Filipino seafarers together with the rest of the crew members of M/V Galaxy Leader," President Marcos said on ...