DFA confirms release of 2 Pinoy seamen in Somalia

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed yesterday the release of 29 crewmen, including two Filipino seamen, of Iranian bulk carrier M/V Iran Deyanat hijacked by Somali pirates last Aug. 21.

DFA Undersecretary Esteban Conejos Jr. said Filipino seafarers Sergio Paloma, 44, of Leyte, and Reynaldo Uy Jr., 30, of Davao, were among those freed last Friday and are now safe.

The Iran Deyanat was heading for Muscat, Oman yesterday and is expected to arrive there tomorrow or Tuesday.

It was the third hijacked ship released by the pirates this week.

Last Wednesday, Somali pirates released 19 crewmen, including 15 Filipino seamen, of the chemical tanker M/T Irene.

They also released last Thursday night the 20 all-Filipino crew of Panama-flagged, Japan-operated bulk carrier M/V Stella Maris.

The DFA is coordinating with ship owners for the repatriation of the Filipino seamen.

There are 46 Filipino seamen still being held by Somali pirates from three ships – M/T Stolt Valor, M/V Centauri and M/T Capt. Stefanos – all hijacked in the Gulf of Aden near Somalia. – Pia Lee-Brago