By Gabriela Baron
At least 25 persons were hurt after a fast craft and a cargo vessel collided in Cebu waters on Sunday, May 21, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported.
The PCG said Monday, May 22, that motor vehicle (MV) St. Jhudiel experienced steering casualty and engine failure, causing it to collide with LCT Poseidon 23 which was on its way to Ormoc City from Mandaue City.
MV St. Jhudiel departed from Ormoc City in Leyte with 197 passengers. It was bound for Cebu City.
Meanwhile, LCT Poseidon 23 was carrying 17 rolling cargoes and 20 cargo helpers when the collision occurred.
The two ships collided in the vicinity waters off Barangay Looc in Mandaue City, according to PCG.
Search and rescue operations are underway.
Members of the Coast Guard Marine Environmental Protection Force-Central Visayas were also dispatched to conduct an oil spill assessment. – ag
