The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) lauded the efforts of both government and private institutions to save the 22 Filipino seafarers onboard MV Irene which was seized by Somali pirates in April following the repatriation of the seafarers on Tuesday.

The DFA lauded the ship’s principal, Chian Spirit Maritime Enterprises, Inc., local manning agency Bright Maritime Corp., the Netherlands government, and the Philippine Embassies, which all ensured that the 22 seafarers were brought to safety.

“Chian Spirit Maritime Enterprises, Inc. and Bright Maritime Corp. did not waver coordinating with the Department to bring home these seafarers to their loved ones,” the DFA said.

“The DFA conveys its appreciation to the Government of the Netherlands and the Royal Netherlands Navy for escorting MV Irene to safety and for providing medical assistance to the crew,” it added. The Royal Netherlands Navy ship Evertsen escorted MV Irene to safety and provided a medical doctor who examined the crew.

The DFA also cited the Philippine Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya for continuously monitoring the local situation and ensuring the safety of the Filipino seafarers.

It likewise lauded the Philippine Embassy in Manama, Bahrain.