DFA: Safety, support assured but no commitment from Iran to release 18 Filipino seafarers ---- By JP SORIANO, GMA Integrated News

Iran's government has not made any commitment regarding the release of the 18 Filipino crew of the oil tanker that was seized in the Gulf of Oman, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Tuesday. However, the Iranian government has guaranteed its support for the Philippine government's call for the safe repatriation of the Filipino seafarers, according to DFA Undersecretary Eduardo De Vega. "We haven't heard any commitment from Iran. But based on past experience, when they apprehend a ship with Filipino seafarers, they usually release them," said De Vega, the DFA Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs. "However, in this case, they haven't said anything yet. Although the Iranian ambassador here promises to support us." Iran seized last week the oil tanker St. Nicholas carrying Iraqi crude for Turkey. It was the same ship that was previously seized by the United States for carrying oil to Iran amid the sanctions imposed at that time. De Vega said for the Iranian government, the seizure of the oil tanker is legal and in accordance with their laws. "It's a legal process in their mind, it's a legal seizure," he said. The Middle Eastern and African Affairs office of the DFA confirmed that the Iranian Embassy in the Philippines has assured them of the safe condition of the 18 Filipino crew members aboard St. Nicholas. "He said, 'They are all in fine condition.' He reiterated it yesterday, so we have the assurance that the Filipino seafarers are fine. The next thing is they will assist us in our consular visit," DFA Assistant Secretary Mardomel Melicor told GMA Integrated News. The Iranian Ambassador in the Philippines has reportedly requested the names of the 18Filipino crew members aboard the seized oil tanker. Meanwhile, our embassy in Tehran, Iran is currently in talks with Iranian officials to visit the seafarers who are currently held by Iran. "It's important for them to see the 18 so they can take photographs to show their families. That is the number one priority, and of course, if they need any assistance or extra help," De Vega said. Empire Navigation, the company managing the ship, continues to coordinate with authorities and the families of their crew members. —KBK, GMA Integrated News

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