Filipino Seafarers Aboard Seized Aries Ship Expected to be Released Soon

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is confident that the Filipino seafarers onboard the commandeered Aries ship will be released soon, according to DMW Officer-In-Charge Hans Leo Cacdac. The ship, operated by the Mediterranean Shipping Company, was seized by Iranian authorities with four Filipino seafarers among the 25 crew members on board. The crew members are reported to be safe, with access to food and water supplies, regular meals, and communication with their families.

Cacdac stated that the crew members have resumed working inside the ship and are in touch with their relatives to assure them of their safety. The licensed manning agency and ship owner are working with Iranian authorities for the release of the crew members. Despite no specific release date being announced, both the Iranian government and the Department of Foreign Affairs have used terms indicating that the release will happen soon.

The MSC Aries is currently anchored off the Iranian port of Tehran, and the crew members are said to be in good condition. Cacdac emphasized that the crew members are safe and well taken care of, with ongoing coordination between the relevant authorities for their release. The DMW remains optimistic about the situation and is closely monitoring developments to ensure the welfare of the Filipino seafarers onboard the commandeered ship.

Source .