A cargo vessel that ran aground off Cape San Agustin in Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental on Friday, May 3, 2024, has refloated early Monday, May 6.

According to the Coast Guard Station Davao Oriental, the vessel was freed without the need for external assistance. The ship relocated and dropped anchor safely in the waters off Sitio Impog in Barangay Lavigan.

No sign of oil spill was observed at the area where the ship ran aground. 

When it ran aground last on May 3, emergency response teams deployed a spill boom around the ship to prevent any potential environmental damage due to its substantial diesel fuel cargo of 42,730 liters.

“The central fuel oil tank has not been compromised by seawater. However, the forepeak tank, which contained fresh water, was breached. This was promptly addressed by emptying the tank using a portable water pump and safely discharging the water overboard,” Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao said earlier.

The vessel is set to be towed to Sta. Ana where it will remain anchored, pending a thorough inspection by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).

“The said inspection aims to assess any potential damage sustained during the incident and to ensure the vessel meets all safety regulations before returning to operation,” Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao added.