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LCT Felicity 8

LCT Felicity 8

LCT Felicity 8
Photo: Philippine Coast Guard

On November 9, the 82 meter long, 4500 dwt landing-craft cargo vessel LCT Felicity 8 ran aground in Pagapas Bay off Wawa Ibaba, Lemery, Batangas, Philippines. The LCT Felicity 8 had sought shelter in Pagapas Bay from the high winds and strong currents caused by Super Typhoon Uwan when it was blown ashore. The Philippine Coast Guard was alerted and dispatched a response team to the scene. The Coast Guard reported that the LCT Felicity 8 was in stable condition with no structural damage and no pollution released. The crew were confirmed to be safe and in good condition.

The Philippine Coast Guard directed the owners of the LCT Felicity 8 to hire a tugboat to refloat the vessel. An investigation has been launched into the cause of the grounding and to assess compliance with safety and navigational protocols.

Maria Rebecca

Maria Rebecca

Maria Rebecca
Photo: inquirer.net

On the morning of November 4, the 48 meter long ro-ro passenger ferry Maria Rebecca (IMO: 7210379) allided in the Sulu Sea at the port of Jolo, Sulu, Philippines. The Maria Rebecca was attempting to berth at the dock in Jolo when it lost control and struck the moored 103 meter long ro-ro passenger ferry Antonia 1 (IMO: 9053440). The bow of the Maria Rebecca struck the aft portion of the Antonia 1.  Both vessels would be later secured with reports of no injuries or pollution released.

The Philippine Coast Guard launched an investigation into the incident. The Coast Guard stated that rough seas conditions and large swells from Typhoon Tino contributed to the allision. The extent of damage for both vessels was not disclosed. Both vessels will undergo inspection and evaluation for repairs.  Both ship captains were advised to file marine protests for documentation.

Lite Ferry 10

Lite Ferry 10

Lite Ferry 10
Photo: facebook

On the night of October 25, the 90 meter long ro-ro passenger ferry Lite Ferry 10 (MMSI: 548665300)  ran aground in the Bohol Sea off Larena, Siquijor, Philippines. The Lite Ferry 10 had departed from Tagbilaran, Bohol with 359 passengers and 45 crew onboard with 250 passengers bound for Plaridel while 109 passengers were travelling to Siquijor. For undisclosed reasons, the ferry ran aground firmly on a coral reef near the shoreline with its bow nearly out of the water.

The Philippine Coast Guard was alerted to the incident and began efforts to rescue the passengers and crew. The Coast Guard arrived on scene and assisted in getting all 359 passengers and 45 crew were safely transferred off the ferry. Afterwards, the Coast Guard began attempts to pull the Lite Ferry 10 free. The first attempted failed as a tugboat was only able to pull the ferry a few meters.  Another attempt would be made the next day on the next high tide.

Reports state that divers made an inspection of the hull and found there were no breaches, but the coral reef had sustained damage. No oil pollution had been detected, but the Philippine Coast Guard had booms ready if any pollution is detected.  Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.