By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz | Philippine News Agency
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is investigating the sinking of Landing Craft Tank (LCT) San Juan Bautista in waters between Romblon and Sibuyan Island on Monday, July 1
In a situation report on Wednesday, July 2, PCG District Southern Tagalog (CGDSTL) said six Filipino crew members of the ship were rescued by the fishing vessel Skip Jack Cri 03 and were found in good physical condition.
LCT San Juan Bautista’s master confirmed that it departed Guihulngan Port in Negros Oriental on June 28, and was bound for drydocking in Navotas City. The vessel was carrying 2,500 liters of marine diesel oil and no cargo when it sank.
The CGDSTL said, “Based on the PCG’s initial assessment, the risk of environmental damage in Southern Tagalog is low since the fuel is a light petroleum product that should dissipate quickly. The estimated 360-foot depth minimizes coral reef impact, and natural processes like dispersion and biodegradation further reduce the likelihood of significant shoreline or marine ecosystem damage.”
The PCG is coordinating with the crew, local officials, and other concerned government agencies to gather and verify details surrounding the incident, including the ship’s last position and condition before it sank.
It stated, “We have alerted local fisherfolk and coastal barangays and, together with the local government of Romblon and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), we have conducted coastal security and seaborne patrols to monitor traces of oil sheens. As we speak, no foul odor was detected along the coastline and nearby waters.”
An aerial survey on Tuesday observed that the waters surrounding the ship’s wreckage remained clear, with no visible signs of oil slicks, sheens, or leaks.
It called on coastal communities in or surrounding Romblon and Sibuyan Island to immediately report any sighting of oil sheen or debris for immediate action. (PNA)
