The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is now collating the statements of the 11 fishermen who survived the collision between a fishing boat and a commercial vessel near the Bajo de Masinloc on Oct. 2.

Department of Transportation DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista said they are now awaiting for the final investigation result of the PCG in connection with the incident for the appropriate action of the Philippine government.

Bautista, however, urged the public to refrain from speculating into the sea mishap that resulted in the death of three fishermen, identified as boat captain Decter Laudencia and crew members Romeo Mejeco and Benedict Olandria.

“The DOTr shares President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s call to the public to refrain from speculating that could affect the ongoing investigation,” said Bautista. 

He said there was already an initial report which states that the commercial vessel involved was registered under the flag of the Marshall Islands. 

“The DOTr will closely coordinate with the PCG on the next steps following the investigation,” said Bautista.

Based on the statements of the survivors, the fishing boat FFB Dearyn was near the Bajo de Masinloc when it was hit by a passing tanker vessel.

“According to their statements adverse weather conditions and darkness may have contributed to their boat not being detected by the passing tanker vessel, thus resulting in the accidental ramming,” the PCG statement read. 

“They further shared that they used their small service boats to transport the bodies of their fallen companions to Infanta, Pangasinan,” it added.

The PCG said efforts are being made to ascertain the identity of the vessel involved, and once identified, the PCG will reach out to the flag of the vessel and her next port of call for further investigation.

“The PCG is committed to ensuring a thorough and impartial investigation into this tragic incident,” it said.