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Tag: Sulu Sea

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.

Weesam Express

Weesam Express

Weesam Express
Photo: inquirer.net
On the early morning of October 7, the 226 gt passenger ferry Weesam Express (IMO: 9093062) sank in the Sulu Sea at Zamboanga, Philippines. The Weesam Express while docked in port suffered uncontrolled water ingress in the engine room. The crew spotted the water and engaged the vessel’s pumps, but the pumps were quickly overwhelmed.  The crew evacuated off Weesam Express to shore as the ferry developed a starboard list.  Strong waves in the area hastened the flooding causing the Weesam Express to capsize and sink leaving on a small part of the hull above water.
The Philippine Coast Guard placed booms around the sunken ferry to contain any pollution released. No reports of injuries. Reports stated the ferry had potentially suffered some mechanical breakdown allowing for the water ingress.
Lady Mary Joy 1

Lady Mary Joy 1

Lady Mary Joy 1
Photo: newsmaritime.com

The 57 meter long passenger cargo vessel Lady Mary Joy 1 ran aground in the Sulu Sea off Pampat Point, Bongao Island, Philippines  The Lady Mary Joy 1 was en route to Bongao Island with 308 passengers from Zamboanga when it ran onto the rocks after a navigation error. The vessel was unable to refloat itself and requested assistance. Several rescue boats arrived on scene and evacuated all the passengers to shore. No reports of injuries.  Authorities have stated the vessel may have suffered hull damage, but no reports of pollution released.