MANILA, Philippines – Somali pirates released its longest held vessel with 17 Filipino crew on board on Thursday, the Department of Foreign Affairs announced.

The DFA said the 17 Pinoy seafarers were released off the coast of Somalia.

The seafarers were on board a Taiwanese-flagged fishing vessel FV Win Far 161, when hijacked on April 6, 2009 in waters off Seychelles.

The vessel’s owner said members of the crew are in good condition and their repatriation is still being arranged.

Meanwhile, 23 Filipinos on board 3 vessels are still held captive in Somalia. Of the 23, two are on board the Thai Union 3; another 3 on the MV St. James Park; and 18 on the MV Navios Apollon.

Philippine authorities continue to coordinate closely with the local manning agencies for the early and safe release of all these seafarers.