Search continues for possible survivors in capsized vessel off Occidental Mindoro

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Thursday assured that it is exhausting all efforts to locate and rescue the individuals on board a vessel that capsized  off the waters of Rizal in Occidental Mindoro last Tuesday.

“In partnership with all stakeholders, the PCG is exhausting all efforts to locate and rescue the missing individuals onboard as its foremost objective,” the PCG said in a statement.

So far, two people have been confirmed dead after the incident, including a Chinese citizen.

The vessel named MV Hong Hai had had 25 crew members onboard—13 Filipinos and 12 Chinese nationals. So far, eight Chinese and six Filipinos have been rescued.

Photo from PCG

Meanwhile, the PCG reported that the ship’s owner and operator have been formally instructed to begin the process of vessel extraction by hiring an accredited salvor.

The PCG has also conducted an underwater survey and is currently assessing all potential risks, such as debris obstruction, poor visibility, adverse weather, and underwater cliffs, before proceeding with operations.

“Our immediate focus is the rescue and recovery of survivors and we should act swiftly, in coordination with LGUs, in implementing preventive measures against oil spills,” said PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan. —VAL, GMA Integrated News