Iran releases British oil tanker’s 23 Pinoy crew

MANILA, Philippines — Iran’s authorities have released 23 crewmembers, including a Filipino, of a British oil tanker seized in July, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said yesterday.

Ambassador to Tehran Wilfredo Santos has conveyed to Iranian authorities the Philippine government’s appreciation for the release of the Filipino seafarer, who is the second officer of the British-flagged and Swedish-owned tanker.

Santos also thanked the Iranian authorities for ensuring the safety of all Stena Impero crewmembers.

According to reports, the oil tanker has left the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas after having been detained by Iran since July.

The Stena Impero was detained by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in the strait of Hormuz waterway for alleged marine violatons.

Meanwhile, the DFA said it is closely monitoring the situation of the 12 Filipino seafarers who were among the crewmembers of Al Buraq 1, an offshore supply ship seized by Iran early this month.

The embassy said the Filipinos are in good spirits and are being treated well while under detention.

Santos, who was accompanied by embassy officials, visited the Filipinos in Hormozgan province near the Persian Gulf to personally see their condition.

“The embassy is making every effort to secure the release of the seafarers and is making all required representation with the Iranian government to ensure their safety and well-being,” the DFA said.