5 Filipino seamen missing off Falkland Islands

MANILA, Philippines — Five Filipino seafarers have been reported missing after their ship caught fire off the Falkland Islands in the South Atlantic Ocean, the Department of Foreign Affairs said.

DFA spokesperson Elmer Cato said the government remains hopeful that the missing seafarers will be found.

According to Ambassador to the United Kingdom Antonio Lagdameo, the five missing Filipinos were part of the 69-member crew of a Taiwanese vessel that caught fire off Falkland Islands on February 11.

"Ambassador Lagdameo said the Philippine Embassy in London is still trying to get more information about the incident," Cato said.

The Philippine Embassy is coordinating with relevant authorities while the search is ongoing. The manning agency of the Filipino seafarers have also expressed its readiness to provide assistance. — Patricia Lourdes Viray