Search, rescue ongoing for 10 missing in capsized Chinese ship off Occidental Mindoro

Search and rescue operations are underway for the 10 missing crew members of a Chinese sand carrier vessel that capsized off Rizal, Occidental Mindoro on Tuesday afternoon, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said Wednesday.

“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 PCG said in a statement.

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

According to the PCG, the Chinese ship identified as Hong Hai 16 was operated by Keen Peak Corporation, with a total crew of 25 members including 13 Filipinos and 12 Chinese.

One Chinese national died in the incident. Fourteen crew members were able to survive including six Filipinos and eight Chinese. 

Meanwhile, 10 people — seven Filipinos and three Chinese — are still missing.

At 5:20 a.m. on Tuesday, the PCG said Hong Hai 16 capsized in the waters off Barangay Malawaan under moderate sea conditions.

After Coast Guard Sub-Station San Jose received a call from Bantay Dagat Rizal about the incident, response teams were deployed to the area.

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office was also tapped for the possible deployment of oil spill containment booms, according to the PCG. —KG, GMA Integrated News