Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 30) — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has decided not to attend the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in Dubai to focus on the situation of 17 hostaged Filipino seafarers in the Red Sea.
The chief executive announced the decision on Thursday, adding that Environment Secretary Ma. Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga would lead the Philippine delegation instead.
“Today, I will be convening a meeting to facilitate the dispatch of a high-level delegation to Tehran, Iran, with the aim of providing necessary assistance to our seafarers,” Marcos said.
Earlier, Marcos said the Department of Foreign Affairs was closely working with its counterparts in Iran, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia for updates.
READ: 17 Pinoy seafarers among crew taken hostage by Houthi rebels in Red Sea
The Filipinos were among the 25 crew members held hostage by Yemen’s Houthi rebels last week.
This came amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.
Citing government sources, DFA spokesperson Teresita Daza said “the hostages are in good condition” and may “eventually be released.”
“Efforts are ongoing for this to happen as soon as possible,” she said.
