4 FILIPINO SEAFARERS AMONG CREWMEN OF CONTAINER SHIP HELD BY IRANIAN FORCES

THE Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed the seizure by Iranian authorities of the containership MSC Aries, with 4 Filipino seafarers on board.

“Upon the directive of the President, we are in touch with the families of our dear seafarers and have assured them of full government support and assistance, the DMW statement said.

“We are also in coordination with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the licensed manning agency (LMA), the ship manager, and the operator to ensure the safety and well-being as well as work on the release of our dear seafarers,” it added.

On Saturday, Iran’s state-run IRNA News Agency reported that the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Special Naval Force had seized the Portuguese-flagged MCS Aries ship near the Strait of Hormuz, saying it was linked to Israel.

MSC, which operates the vessel, confirmed the seizure saying that they are now working with relevant authorities for the safe return and well-being of its 25 crewmembers, including the four Filipinos.

MSC Aries is operated by the Zodiac Maritime Shipping Company partly owned by Israeli businessman Eyal Ofer.