Ship runs aground off Cebu; 212 rescued

MANILA, Philippines - At least 212 passengers were rescued after a passenger vessel ran aground off Cebu over the weekend, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said yesterday.

PCG spokesman Lt. Commander Algier Ricafrente said M/V Weesam Express-8 left Tagbilaran, Bohol at around 3:28 p.m. on Saturday and was supposed to arrive at Pier 4 in Cebu City.

He said the vessel, carrying 212 passengers and 13 crewmembers, ran aground at around 6:15 p.m. at Lauis Ledge in Talisay town.

Ricafrente said PCG commandant Admiral Ramon Liwag yesterday ordered an investigation into the incident.