TACLOBAN CITY – At least 14 crew members of a cargo ship, which had started to take in seawater due to huge waves, were able to seek help after one of them was able to post on his Facebook page their emergency on Sunday, October 25.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) was immediately able to respond to the incident involving Philippine-flagged cargo vessel, MV The Good Fortune that encountered engine trouble 8.5 nautical miles east of Ubay, Bohol, and 13 nautical miles west of Maasin, Southern Leyte.
The cargo vessel departed Naga, Cebu at around 6 p.m. Saturday, October 24, and was on its way to Bicol when it encountered huge waves spawned by tropical storm Quinta.
Apparently, the PCG was alerted about the danger MV The Good Fortune was in after one of its crew members John Paul Lato was able to post a photo of himself on FB, seeking the help of the PCG.
Lato was wearing a life vest in the photo he posted on FB, where he also said that the vessel’s engine had stopped, and seawater had started to seep into the engine room.
A team from Aduana Wharf in Cebu City was sent to conduct a search and rescue operation, as well as inspection for possible oil spill.
While underway, the PCG said they were able to maintain active and direct communication with Captain Charlie Jesus Solleque to ensure that all the crew members remained safe until further assistance was provided.
It added that all PCG Stations and Sub-Stations in Leyte and Bohol were alerted to prepare for possible vessel and personnel augmentation.
As of 4 p.m., Sunday, the The Good Fortune was reported anchored at President Carlos P Garcia town in Bohol while undergoing engine repair.
All 14 crew members, including the captain, were reportedly in good physical condition.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), “Quinta” continued to intensify as it increased its threat over the Catanduanes-Albay area.
It was moving generally westward, and was directed to make a landfall over the Catanduanes-Albay area between Sunday afternoon and evening.