Fastcraft collides with cargo vessel off Cebu

CEBU CITY, Philippines — A crew member was hurt after he fell into the waters shortly before 6 p.m. on Wednesday when a fastcraft and a cargo vessel collided in the vicinity of Lawis Ledge in Talisay City, Cebu.

Chief engineer Romeo Astillero of Starcraft 9 was unconscious when brought to the hospital, said Commander Weniel Azcuna, commander of Coast Guard Cebu.

Starcraft 9 was bound for Bohol when it collided with MV Our Lady of Faith of Medallion Transport about 5:50 p.m.

The cargo vessel came from Naga City, Cebu and was loaded with cement bags.

Azcuna said he didn’t know where the cargo vessel was heading.

During the collision, Astillero fell overboard.

“He was safely recovered and was immediately brought to the hospital upon arrival of Starcraft 9 at Pier 3 at 6:15 p.m.,” the Coast Guard report stated.

The rest of the crew and passengers were unharmed, the Coast Guard report said.

Azcuna said the passengers transferred to Starcraft 7 which left at 8 p.m. for Tubigon town in Bohol.

The MV Our Lady of Faith proceeded to Barangay Tayud in Consolacion town in northern Cebu.

It did not sustain major damage but the skippers of two vessels were ordered to file their marine protest.