Four fishermen were injured when their boat burst into flames after its engine allegedly exploded in Barangay Calumpang, General Santos City on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

Personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) responded immediately to help put the fire out and rescue the fishermen.

Two of the fishermen sustained severe burns and were brought to the hospital.

Residents said the fishermen were about to set sail when the boat’s engine reportedly exploded upon starting. The boat then caught fire after the explosion.

“Padulong na ni siya mularga pag start na sa operation murag ambot ground ba unsa ba kay mao man ang pagbuto pag start sa makina,” a resident, Jose Maratas Sr., said.

PCG is still investigating the incident to determine the exact cause of the explosion.

“There are lot of possibilities katulad ng nagkaroon ng short circuit sa makina. Sa mga leaks nag-accumulate ng vapor doon tapos pagka start ng makina doon na pressurized, nagkaroon ng spark at sumabog yung makina,” Coast Guard District Southern Mindanao Chief of Staff, Lt. j.g. Gideon Dulnuan, said.