By Matthew Go
A cargo vessel carrying heavy construction equipment sank off Barangay VI, Johnson Island, Roxas, Palawan, on Friday, December 20, due to strong waves and adverse weather conditions, authorities said.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported that the LCT 788, captained by a local mariner, sank at approximately 1 p.m. while en route from Marala Port in Navotas City to Marcelo Port in Puerto Princesa City.
All 19 crew members, including the captain, were rescued during a joint operation by the PCG and Bantay Dagat-Roxas. The crew members were brought under the custody of PCG-Roxas, and no injuries were reported, officials confirmed.
The LCT 788, a landing craft constructed in 2015, measures 71.6 meters in length and 18 meters in beam, with a gross tonnage of 528. Investigations into the incident are ongoing, according to the PCG.