1 Filipino seaman freed, 3 remain captive in ship seized by Iran, says DFA

1 Filipino seaman freed, 3 remain captive in ship seized by Iran, says DFA
Charie Abarca - May 10, 2024 https://globalnation.inquirer.net/235306/one-of-4-filipino-seafarers-of-...(direct)&utm_medium=gallery

MANILA, Philippines — One Filipino crew member of the container ship MSC Aries seized by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz has been released and is set to arrive in the Philippines on Friday, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed.

“We appreciate Iran’s gesture and the intercession of India in this matter. The DFA is working with the Department of Migrant Workers for the release and repatriation of the three other Filipinos on the ship,” said DFA in a tweet.

“We hope for their eventual speedy return to their homes and families,” the department added.

Earlier, the DFA said they were working to secure the release of the four Filipino crew members of MSC Aries. The container ship was seized by Iran on April 13.

The four Filipino seafarers were among the ship’s 25 crew members, which included seafarers from Russia, India, Pakistan and Estonia.