Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac paid a visit to overseas Filipino worker (OFW) George Francis Palanca Miranda’s family on Sunday to personally express the government’s concern and assure them of continued support after Miranda was reported missing while on duty at the Strait of Hormuz.

In a statement, the DMW vowed to provide full legal and welfare support with the help of lawyers knowledgeable in United Arab Emirates (UAE) maritime and labor laws.

Additionally, it is coordinating with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to send official diplomatic requests to the UAE government and other relevant foreign authorities, in order to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure a “fair and thorough” probe is conducted.

“The Department further reaffirms its commitment to protecting the rights and entitlements of Mr. Miranda and his beneficiaries under applicable laws and agreements,” the migrant workers agency said.

Miranda, 46, was aboard tugboat Mussafa 2, which was struck by a pair of missiles this week, according to reports. When he last spoke to his wife and young daughter, he was hurrying to the aid of another stricken vessel.