Coast Guard rescues 5 crew of half-submerged ship near Mindoro

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) rescued 5 crewmembers of a ship that had been under distress off the coast of Occidental Mindoro after strong winds and waves submerged half of tis body. 

The PCG said the rescue involving the MBCA Amable Lines ship, a motorized banca, took place at around 10 pm on Wednesday, December 30, off Barangay Silonay, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro. 

The ship had come from Sibuyan, Romblon and was bound off Sta. Clara, Batangas to pick-up cargo. On its way to its destination, the crew was caught in strong winds and high waves that tilted the boat and caused sea water to quickly fill the boat’s compartments. 

After receiving a report from the ship, the PCG said it a search and rescue team was formed, though it was unable to immediately depart due to heavy rainfall and rough seas. 

PCG personnel at its station in Oriental Mindoro radioed transiting vessels nearby the distressed ship to assist its crew. 

Philippine-flagged cargo ship, MV Anica TV received the message and found the crew who were reportedly to be in good condition.

The crew arrived at the port of Calapan on Thursday, December 31. Member of the PCG’s medical team treated the crew members’ injuries thereafter. – Rappler.com