10-5-2024 (MANILA) The Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that one of the four Filipino seafarers aboard the MSC Aries, which was seized by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, has been released and is scheduled to return to the Philippines later today.
In a statement posted on X, the foreign affairs department expressed gratitude for Iran’s action and acknowledged India’s intervention in the matter. The department also stated that efforts are underway, in collaboration with the Department of Migrant Workers, to secure the release and repatriation of the remaining three Filipino seafarers.
“We welcome the positive development concerning the release of one of the four Filipino seafarers aboard the MSC Aries, who will be returning home later today. We appreciate the gesture by Iran and the assistance provided by India in resolving this issue,” the statement read.
The DFA reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safe return of all Filipino crew members and expressed hope for their prompt reunion with their families.
Last month, the DFA expressed optimism about the eventual release of the four Filipino seafarers detained on the MSC Aries. The vessel, carrying the Filipino crew, was seized by Iranian forces near the Strait of Hormuz in response to an alleged Israeli attack on its consulate in Syria.
Eduardo de Vega, DFA Undersecretary for Migrant Affairs, clarified that the Iranian authorities’ focus was solely on the vessel and not on the crew members. He assured that the seafarers were unharmed and had been allowed to maintain communication with their families throughout the ordeal.
The seizure of the ship was condemned by Israel and the United States, who labelled it as an act of piracy. Israel also urged the European Union to designate the Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organization.
