Cargo vessel sinks off Camiguin; crew safe

CEBU CITY—A cargo vessel loaded with 3,150 metric tons of limestone sank in the waters between Camiguin Island and Bohol on Friday night after it capsized due to strong waves.

The 26 crew members of LCT 378 of Cebu Sea Charterer Inc. based in Cebu City were rescued by the crew of MV Ton Ying, a Singaporean vessel which happened to pass by the area.

The survivors were brought to the Coast Guard Station in Dapitan City,  said Lt. Junior Grade Robinson Madriaga, head of the Coast Guard Station in Tagbilaran City, Bohol.

In a maritime incident report of the Philippine Coast Guard based in Tagbilaran, LCT 378 left Garcia Hernandez town about 11 p.m. on Thursday and was heading to Cagayan de Oro City to deliver the limestones.

But the vessel was battered by strong waves and wind due to heavy rain on Friday night, said Madriaga.

Ship captain Edilberto Jugarap Sr. sent a distress call at 7 p.m. upon reaching Camiguin Island due to big waves and strong wind.

Three hours later, the vessel began to tilt on one side, prompting Jugarap to order his crew to abandon ship, said Madriaga.

They were able to get on board two life rafts before the vessel capsized and sank.

Chief Engr. Conrado Condotco told the Coast Guard that vessel was loaded with 6,000 liters of fuel.