MANILA, Philippines (AP) — A torturous wait by the families of 23 captive Filipinos ended on Tuesday as Somali pirates freed a chemical tanker after holding the crew for more than five months in the Gulf of Aden. Catherine Borretta broke into tears after receiving a mobile phone message that her husband Rodell — a second mate on the Philippine ship MT Stolt Strength — was released with the others. “I’m so overjoyed, so overwhelmed,” Borretta said, adding she’ll welcome Rodell with his favorite pork dish and a small party at home.
Somali pirates free Philippine tanker, 23 crew members
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April 20, 2009