Sadong 33

On the early morning hours of March 25, the tugboat Sadong 33 capsized in Sarangani Bay near Maasim, Philippines. The Sadong 33 was towing the 59 meter long landing craft LCT Sea Asia (IMO:8843551) from Glan, Sarangani to Iligan City when its towline was struck by the 169 meter long, 28388 dwt bulk carrier Universe Kaisa (IMO: 9283849). The bulk carrier passed too close to the towing line causing the line to snap and resulting in the Sadong 33 to suddenly rollover.
Six of the eight crew were later rescued by the Philippine Coast Guard. The captain of the Sadong 33 and one other crew member perished. Authorities state the captain’s body was later recovered. There were no reports of injuries or damage on the Universe Kaisa or the LCT Sea Asia. Authorities have placed booms around the overturn Sadong 33 to contain any pollution released. Reports state the Sadong 33 had somewhere between 50 to 100 meters of towline between itself and the LCT Sea Asia during the incident. The Philippine Coast Guard has stated that legal charges may be filed against the master and crew of the Universe Kiza.