Cargo vessel capsizes off Surigao del Norte

MANILA, Philippines — Twenty-three crewmembers of a cargo vessel were rescued after it capsized in the vicinity of the waters between Hinatuan and Bucas Grande Islands in Surigao del Norte yesterday.

Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesman Commodore Armand Balilo said the cargo ship, LCT Pacifica 1, departed from Cabadbaran Port in Agusan del Norte and was bound for Dapa Port in Surigao del Norte when the accident occurred.

“They encountered big waves... that entered the engine room, resulting in engine trouble and steering casualty,” Balilo said.

He said the PCG responded after receiving a call from the crewmembers of MV Veronica, who spotted the distressed ship.