Manila Philippines – Iranian authorities have released one of the four Filipino crew members of the Portuguese ship MSC Aries, the Foreign Ministry of Portugal confirmed.
From the 25 crew of the said Portuguese ship captured in April, seven of them were released by the Iranian authorities.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) expressed gratitude for the efforts of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) led by Secretary Enrique Manalo to ensure the safe release of Filipinos.
It is said that the DMW will continue to work with the DFA to free the remaining three Filipino crew members who remain captives of the Iranians.
“The DMW will continue working with the DFA, the ship agent and licensed manning agency to secure the release of the three Filipino crew men who remain in the custody of Iranian authorities,” said Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac.
This follows the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. which assures the DMW, DFA and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) of assistance and coordination to the relatives of the Filipino captives.
Government agencies are also hoping for the immediate release of other hostages held by Iranian authorities.
April 13, current year when Iranian Naval Forces captured the MSC Aries while transiting the Strait of Hormuz.