The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Tuesday announced the release of 23 Filipino seafarers on board a cargo vessel seized by Somali pirates last November 2008.

“The DFA is pleased to confirm the release of the MT Stolt Strength with 23 Filipino seafarers on board at 11:35 am Philippine time,” the DFA said in a text message to abs-cbnNEWS.com.

The vessel is now under the command of Capt. Abelardo Pacheco and was reportedly proceeding to safer waters.

“The Philippine government conveys its appreciation to all parties which helped facilitate the release of the vessel and the regaining of freedom for its long suffering crew and their families,” the DFA added.

Recently, the wives of the ship's Pinoy crew appealed to the Philippine government for the safe and immediate release of their husbands. They also appealed to their husbands’ manning agency and employer to act more swiftly in securing their freedom.

Reports said the wives communicated with husbands last Holy Week. They were told that the pirates planned to use their spouses as human shields for their other kidnapping activities. With reports from Timi Nubla, ABS-CBN News