Iran releases 3 remaining Filipinos on board MSC Aries

MANILA – The three remaining Filipino seafarers from the Portuguese-flagged MSC Aries, seized by the Iranian authorities while passing through the Strait of Hormuz in April, have returned to the Philippines, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) said Saturday.

The three were among the four Filipino crew members of the vessel. One was released in May because of health issues.

"Ang magandang ulat dito, hindi lang namin inanunsiyo pero quietly iyong tatlo na natira doon sa MSC Aries, that was seized by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard sa Strait of Hormuz ay naka-uwi na, naka-uwi na silang tatlo (We just didn't announce it but the three remaining Filipinos on the MSC Aries, which was seized by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard in the Strait of Hormuz, have been quietly returned home)," said DMW Secretary Hans Cacdac at the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City.

The official said they arrived home on Thursday.

"Nagpapasalamat tayo sa DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs), sa ship owner and, of course, sa pagpayag na maka-uwi sila – even the Iranian government ay tumulong din (They just got back so we thank the DFA, the ship owner and, of course, for allowing them to get back – even the Iranian government helped)," he added.

The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps Special Naval Force seized the Portuguese-flagged MCS Aries between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, saying it was linked to Israel. The ship had a total of 25 crew members. (PNA)