PCG continues search for missing Vietnamese cargo vessel crew members

The Search and Rescue operations for the missing crew of the Vietnamese cargo vessel that sank in the vicinity of the Kagitingan Reef in the West Philippine Sea is ongoing, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said.

"As of 4PM today, July 28, 2026, BRP Malapascua (MRRV-4403) is currently conducting the sixth leg of the SAR operation to locate the 14 missing crew members," the PCG said in a statement.

The PCG vessel already transmitted a radio broadcast to ships in the area to seek support for the SAR operations and request vigilance for possible sightings of survivors.

"Despite moderate to rough sea conditions, BRP Malapascua (MRRV-4403) continues to systematically search the designated area while coordinating with other vessels participating in the operation," the PCG said.

"The vessel has also been augmented with the Marine Science Technical Service, Special Operations Unit, Coast Guard Medical Service, and Coast Guard Nursing Service to strengthen the ongoing humanitarian mission," it added.

The Vietnamese vessel, identified as Khoi Nguyen 18, sank on the evening of July 25, 2026, with a total of 62 crew members aboard.

“The PCG Command Center is coordinating closely with the VCG (Vietnamese Coast Guard) for other operational information needed to guide the search and rescue response,” PCG spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab said in a statement.

“We are also utilizing the Search and Rescue Optimal Planning System to guide responding assets and improve the probability of locating the missing persons,” she added.

Chinese state-run news agency CCTV, meanwhile, said that it was Chinese teams who rescued the Vietnamese sailors near the Chinese-occupied reef. — BAP, GMA News