Singapore – Filipino fishers caught in a maritime collision near Singapore now have government support behind them. The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has released financial assistance to the crew of the China-flagged fishing vessel FN Lu Qina Yuan Yu 108, which collided with the Panama-flagged bulk carrier M/V First Margaux in the Strait of Singapore on September 17, 2026.
Government Steps In With Direct Support
According to a statement from the Department of Migrant Workers, Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac personally met with the affected fishers to hand over aid and reassure them that help would continue. The move follows a direct order from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to look after the crew.
Secretary Cacdac left no doubt about the government’s commitment during his visit.
“Ipinag-utos ng ating Pangulo na tulungan kayo. Hindi namin kayo pababayaan. Para sa gobyerno, lahat kayo ay bayani at may mga pamilyang umaasa sa inyo,” he said.
What the Assistance Covers
Beyond the cash aid released, the DMW laid out a wider recovery plan for the fishers. Secretary Cacdac instructed the licensed manning agencies that deployed the crew to arrange the following:
- Medical evaluations through appropriate health facilities
- Psychosocial counseling to help the fishers cope after the incident
- Document replacement for papers lost during the collision, done in coordination with relevant government agencies
The Department is also reviewing the responsibilities and possible liabilities tied to the collision. Officials made it clear that any matters involving compensation, damages, and other claims should pass through the DMW.
Families of Fishers Not Left Behind
Cacdac stressed that support must reach beyond the fishers themselves. Many of the crew are breadwinners with young children and other dependents who count on their income to get by.
“May mga pamilya kayong umaasa sa inyo. May mga anak kayong kailangang suportahan. Kaya titiyakin natin na hindi kayong pababayaan at hindi magiging pasaning inyong mga pamilya ang nangyari sa inyo,” he said.
Coordination Continues
The DMW confirmed it will keep working with government agencies, manning companies, and maritime authorities to protect the rights and welfare of the affected fishers. The goal is to make sure every form of assistance and every valid claim reaches the crew and their loved ones.
For Filipino fishers and their families, the message from Manila is straightforward: you are not alone, and the government is standing with you through this recovery.