PCG launches search for 10 missing crew of Chinese ship

The sand carrier vessel M/V Hong Hai 16 sinks into the waters off Occidental Mindoro as the Philippine Coast Guard searches for its 10 missing crew members. — Photo from the PCG

MANILA, Philippines —  The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has launched a search and rescue operation for 10 missing crew members aboard a Chinese vessel that capsized off Occidental Mindoro on Tuesday.

In a report on Wednesday, the PCG said that Motor Vessel Hong Hai 16, a sand carrier vessel, capsized in the waters of Barangay Malaawan around 5:20 p.m. under moderate sea conditions. The ship had 25 crew members: 13 Filipinos and 12 Chinese.

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“Search and rescue operations are ongoing, including underwater assessments and preparation for diving operations and cutting work by the Coast Guard Special Operations Group Southern Tagalog,” the agency said.

“Per initial visual assessment, the vessel remains upright but partially submerged, with possible trapped personnel in the engine room,” it added.

Of the 10 missing crew members, seven are Filipinos, while three are Chinese.

Before launching another search and rescue operation, the PCG said they have rescued 14 crew members—six Filipinos and eight Chinese—while one Chinese was found dead.

In preparation for possible environmental hazards, the PCG said its personnel coordinated with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office in case there is a need to install oil spill containment booms.