Kabayan Party-list Rep. Ron Salo (left), Iranian Ambassador Yousef Esmaeil Zadeh (Rep. Salo's office)

Kabayan Party-list Rep. Ron Salo has received assurance on the safety of the four Filipino seafarers who are among the crew members of MSC Aries, the vessel seized by the Iranian Navy in the Strait of Hormuz. 


This assurance was given by no less than Iranian Ambassador Yousef Esmaeil Zadeh, who had a dialogue with Salo on Wednesday, April l17. Salo chairs the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs. 

During the dialogue, Zadeh told Salo that the welfare of the four Filipino seafarers aboard are taken care of. The envoy also emphasized Iran’s support on the welfare of Filipino seafarers, and noted the good relations that exist between the people and the government of the Philippines and that of Iran. 

Zadeh's assurances to Salo followed similar commitments made to Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Enrique Manalo and Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega in a preceding meeting. 

"I am grateful for the Iranian government's assurance that our kababayans are being well-taken care of, with facilities established to allow them to contact their families," Salo said. 

“Repatriating our fellow countrymen is of paramount importance and requires a collective, whole-of-government effort. We, in the House of Representatives, are committed in reinforcing the initiatives already being undertaken by the Executive branch,” added the veteran congressman. 

Zadeh underscored the importance of the shipowner's cooperation with the Iranian government. He said the capture of the ship was based on a judicial order from an Iranian court. 

The Kabayan Party-list solon showed understanding of the legalities involved and emphasized the need for diplomatic engagement to facilitate a swift and fair resolution. 

The ambassador Esmaeil further assured Salo that should the Filipino seafarers opt for repatriation once the issues are already threshed-out, Iran would facilitate and expedite their safe return home. 

Zadeh concluded the meeting by inviting Salo to Tehran for an official visit to meet with Iranian legislative members, once the situation normalizes. 

"I am eager for the opportunity to visit Tehran when tensions in the region subside. Engaging with my legislative counterparts is a bridge towards greater mutual understanding and cooperation, which is crucial during these challenging times," said Salo.