10 people die as fire hits passenger vessel off Basilan waters
Published Mar 30, 2023 02:48 am
At least 10 people died when a fire engulfed a passenger vessel off the waters of Baluk-Baluk Island in Basilan on Wednesday night, March 29, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) said.
Citing reports from the ground, PPA spokesperson Eunice Samonte said the M/V Lady Mary Joy 3 was hit by fire at around 10 p.m. which prompted rescue operations from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and local agencies.
Four of the bodies were at the Baseport Zamboanga while the six other bodies are still being transported,” said Samonte.
“Investigation is ongoing as to the cause of the fire,” she added.
The Jolo-bound vessel left Zamboanga Port with 205 passengers and 35 crew on board.
Based on the latest update, a total of 163 passengers were rescued along with the 35 crew.
Of those rescued, 126 were reported injured and were taken to the nearest hospital.
Samonte said medical attention, food and other basic necessities were provide to survivors.
In a statement, the PCG said it immediately sent search and rescue teams from the Coast Guard Sub-Station Maluso after receiving the report.
A cadaver of a woman was initially retrieved, according to the PCG statement. Later, four passengers were rescued and another cadaver of a female was retrieved.
The PCG said three of its vessels were also deployed in the area.
“Coast Guard Station Basilan is currently checking if there are signs of oil spill and assist in the conduct investigation and assessment of the vessel at the same time continue conducting search and retrieval operations of the still missing individuals,” the PCG statement read.