Cargo vessel runs aground off Zambales

A cargo vessel ran aground Saturday in shallow waters off Masinloc, Zambales,  according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

Strong winds and big waves pushed cargo vessel LCT Aviva 80 to run aground off Barangay Bani, the PCG said.

“The joint search and rescue (SAR) team, composed of PCG and Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel, used a life raft connected to a rope to rescue the crew members of the distressed vessel,” the it added. 

So far, 22 of the 24 ship's crew have been rescued, and were brought to the Rural Health Unit of Masinloc town. They were declared in good health condition, the PCG said.

Meanwhile, search and rescue operations were ongoing for ship's captain Allan Boyboy, and chief mate Felix Gepillano Jr. who remained on the vessel.

PCG's Marine Environmental Protection Group in Zambales said there was no trace of oil spill around the area where the vessel was stalled. —LBG, GMA News