PCG says no seajacking on cargo ship off Zamboanga Peninsula

The Philippine Coast Guard responded to a report of a possible seajacking of a Philippine-flagged cargo vessel near the Zamboanga Peninsula, but was able to confirm that no seajacking occurred.

According to the PCG's statement on Thursday, the company in charge of MV Jeselli, which was carrying 2,525.300 metric tons of yellow corn, said that they could not contact the crew.

The company also said the ship’s chief mate had reported that a vessel had come alongside the ship and robbed it of some of its cargo.

The PCG said it was able to reach the Jeselli at a wharf in General Santos City, where it conducted a Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) on the ship.

"The Coast Guard boarding team confirmed with the Captain and crew on board that there was NO SEAJACKING INCIDENT THAT TRANSPIRED involving their vessel," the PCG said.

It added that it is currently conducting a safety inspection of the ship, and that it would provide a progress report. — Jiselle Anne C. Casucian/BM, GMA Integrated News