The Iranian Embassy in Manila has pledged assistance to the Philippines in its request for the release of 18 Filipinos who were on board an oil tanker seized by Iran in the Gulf of Oman. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed this development, stating that they are in contact with the Iranian government and that the Iranian ambassador has assured them of assistance. The DFA is currently working to ascertain the condition of the Filipino seafarers.
According to DFA Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs, Eduardo Jose de Vega, an official report from the Philippine embassy in Iran is still awaited, and therefore, the condition of the seafarers cannot be confirmed at this time. However, de Vega mentioned that there is no indication of harm or mistreatment towards the seafarers. He added that the Iranian ambassador has given assurances that they are working towards their release as soon as possible.
In the meantime, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is in touch with the families of the 18 seafarers to provide necessary assistance. DMW Undersecretary Patricia Yvonne Caunan stated that the update on the seafarers’ condition so far is encouraging, with no reports of any harm. The DMW will continue to monitor the situation of the seafarers closely.
The oil tanker in question, named ST Nikolas and flagged under the Marshall Islands, was seized by Iran in the Gulf of Oman while en route from the Iraqi port of Basra to Turkey. It is worth noting that this vessel had previously made headlines in 2023 when the United States confiscated over 980,000 barrels of Iranian crude oil it was carrying as part of a sanction enforcement operation. The ship had a crew of 19, including 18 Filipinos and one Greek.
Iranian local reports have stated that the seizure of the oil tanker was in retaliation for the US confiscation. The tanker, previously known as Suez Rajan, was renamed ST Nicholas after being seized by the Iranian Navy. Fars News Agency, based in Iran, cited a statement from the Navy, mentioning that the seizure was carried out with a judicial order as a response to the alleged theft of Iran’s oil by the US.
Turning our attention to another incident involving Filipino seafarers, 17 crew members of the Galaxy Leader cargo ship are currently being held by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea since their vessel’s seizure last November. DMW Undersecretary Caunan expressed that the seafarers are in good condition, and negotiations for their release are ongoing, with the DFA leading the efforts. Caunan expressed hope for a positive development in this situation in the near future.
The Philippines is known for its significant contribution to the global maritime industry, with a large number of Filipino seafarers working on ships worldwide. The government is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its seafarers and will continue to work diligently to secure their release and provide assistance to their families during this challenging time.
In conclusion, the Iranian Embassy in Manila has promised assistance to the Philippines in its efforts to secure the release of the Filipino seafarers on board the seized oil tanker. The DFA and DMW are actively engaged in coordinating with the Iranian government and monitoring the situation closely. The government remains hopeful for a positive outcome and is committed to supporting its seafarers and their families throughout this ordeal.
Source: The Manila Times
