MANILA, Philippines - A Philippine government official says a ship with 20 Filipino sailors has been hijacked off the coast of Somalia.

Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Estaban Conejos says the Japanese-owned vessel was seized by pirates on Sunday.

He says that the ship's owner is in contact with the crew and they are safe.

Conejos told reporters Wednesday that the ship has been located off the northeastern tip of Somalia.

Conejos has ruled out paying a ransom to free the hostages, saying it is against the Philippine government's policy.

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