Collision off Sarangani Bay
The 48 meter long freighter Bulk Carrier I collided with the 161 meter long, 16,162 gt boxship HS Puccini off Tampuan Point near the entry to Sarangani Bay, Philippines. The Bulk Carrier I had left the wharf at General Santos City into the bay. The freighter was heading for Dumaguete City with a cargo of 246 tons of corn. The HS Puccini was sailing from Davao City headed for General Santos City with 16,162 metric tons of cargo. In the driving rain, the HS Puccini sliced into the starboard side of the Bulk Carrier I. The freighter nearly rolled over as hull was breached near the engine room. The Bulk Carrier I soon filled with water and sank. After the collision, the master of the HS Puccini contacted the Philippines Coast Guard which dispatched rescue craft to the scene. Other vessels including the passenger ship Superferry helped in the rescue operation. Reports state 21 men were rescued while two perished from the HS Puccini. Five of the crewmen rescued were found near the town of Maasim as they attempted to swim for shore. Six men were reported injured.
An oil slick has been reported where the Bulk Carrier I sank. Officals stated that six tons of fuel was released. The Coast Guard has released dispersants to break up the oil slick and environmental personnel are on scene to assist in the cleanup effort.
