Orophil Shipping International Co., Inc. welcomed home the Filipino crew members of MV African Oasis, a press release from the shipping company said.
The crew has safely returned to the Philippines after enduring months of uncertainty and danger in the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.
According to the statement, the dedicated Filipino seafarers faithfully carried out their duties while their vessel remained in a high-risk maritime region. Despite the severe challenges, anxiety, and operational restrictions brought about by the regional crisis, they demonstrated exceptional professionalism, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to their responsibilities onboard.
Leading the formal welcome honors were Juan Orola, Jr., chairman of Orophil Shipping International Co., Inc.; Tomas Orola, president of Orophil Shipping; and Elizabeth Salabas, chairperson of VMA Global College & Training Centers, Inc., along with the crew’s families and the generosity of the shipowner, Santoku Senpaku Co., Ltd. and Kawana Kaiun Co., Ltd.
“Their steadfast support, concern, and commitment to the welfare of our seafarers were evident throughout this difficult period, providing vital reassurance to both the crew and their anxious families. Together, the leadership expressed their immense relief and pride in the safe repatriation of the crew.”
“These men are brave and courageous,” said Tomas Orola, fittingly describing the returning crew. “They fulfilled their duties with honor despite the immense risks and uncertainties they faced far from home.”
“On behalf of Orophil Shipping International Co., Inc., we extend our deepest congratulations and sincere appreciation to the seven brave men who spent approximately three months onboard MV African Oasis under extraordinary circumstances. Their safe return is a testament to their courage, discipline, and unwavering dedication as Filipino maritime professionals,” he said.
The returning crew members are Chief Engineer Vivencio Balicas Jr., Chief Officer Alfonso Madla, Able-Bodied Seaman Richard Prohibido, oiler Alexis Lopez, wiper Jethro Bryan Obas, deck cadet Emmanuel Edulag, messman Lucio Jerry Avila, and Master Capt. Celino Padillo.
The returning crew members were awarded Certificates of Appreciation honoring their resilience, bravery, professionalism, and dedication while serving under exceptionally challenging circumstances.
Orophil Shipping was honored to receive the crew with a warm and dignified welcome attended by leaders of the maritime industry, members of the media, representatives of the company, and the crew’s loved ones.
Many of these seafarers are proud alumni of VMA Global College and Training Center, Inc., further exemplifying the institution’s commitment to developing competent, disciplined, and world-class maritime professionals who continue to bring honor to the Philippines.
“Today, we celebrate not only a homecoming but also the enduring strength of the Filipino seafarer. Their story serves as an inspiration to the entire global maritime community,” the press release added.*
