Two crew members of a motor vessel died of suffocation while two others survived when they figured in a sea accident while on their way to Cebu, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported Friday, Sept. 24.
Remil Sanico and Renato Sanico, who worked as oilers of MV Lady of Good Voyage, died after they allegedly got suffocated while trying to pump out the water that had entered the vessel when its propeller broke last Wednesday.
Two others survived the incident.
According to an initial report, the boat was on its way to Cebu when the propeller got damaged around 7:15 p.m., causing seawater to seep in.
The boat captain decided to go back to Dipolog City to have the vessel repaired. The four crew then entered the shaft room to get rid of the seawater but they allegedly got suffocated.
The deceased crew members were declared dead on arrival at a hospital in Dipolog City past 8 p.m.
According to PCG, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) already met with the shipowner on to discuss the incident and further actions that are needed to support the survivors and the bereaved families.