(Eagle News)–One Filipino crew member of the container ship recently seized by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz has been released, the Department of Foreign Affairs said.
According to the DFA, the crew member–who is one of 25 individuals on board MSC Aries when it was seized by Iran on April 13–is set to arrive in the Philippines on Friday.
Apart from the Filipino, five Indians and an Estonian were released.
Prior to this, one Indian was also freed.
With the releases, the total number of individuals still on board the ship is at 17, including three more Filipinos.
“We appreciate Iran’s gesture and the intercession of India in this matter,” the DFA said.
It said it was also working with the Department of Migrant Workers for the release and repatriation of the other Filipinos.
“We hope for their eventual speedy return to their homes and families,” the DFA added.
Iranian authorities has said MSC Aries was seized for its violation of maritime laws.
The vessel has links to Israel, which is in conflict with Iran.
