Star Liberty
The 55 meter long, 383 gt cargo vessel Star Liberty ran aground at Barangay, Antique, Philippines. The cargo vessel had been at anchor off Barangay since August 28 with a cargo of 28,000 bags of cement when strong winds from a southwestern monsoon caused the anchors to drag. The crew attempted to restart the vessel’s engine, but the engine wouldn’t start as the Star Liberty was blown ashore. The 22 crew on board were ordered to abandon ship and all were able to reach the shore, but 12 crew sustained minor injuries and were taken to hospital. Local authorities have booms ready to deploy to contain any pollution released. Reports state the Star Liberty could contain up to 6000 litres of diesel fuel on board.