The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said Wednesday, July 2, that it was investigating the sinking of a landing craft tank (LCT) between the vicinity waters of Romblon and Sibuyan Island, threatening the risk of environmental damage in the province.

Six Filipino crew members were rescued from the sunken LCT “San Juan Bautista” around 12:30 a.m. last June 30 when the vessel dropped to the bottom of the sea.

Commodore Geronimo Tuvilla, commander of Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog (CGDST), said the vessel departed Guihulngan Port in Negros Oriental on June 28 bound for drydocking in Navotas City when it sank.

The vessel was carrying 2,500 liters of marine diesel oil but there were no cargoes onboard. The cause of the incident is yet to be determined.

“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,” Tuvilla said, although ensuring that all preventive measures will be implemented to avoid marine environment destruction.

“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,” he added.

The PCG said it has coordinated with the rescued crew, local officials in Romblon, and concerned government agencies to determine the cause of the sinking, as well as the vessel’s last position and condition prior to the incident.

An aerial surveillance was also conducted on July 1 to locate the wreckage or detect any signs of pollution.

“Observations confirmed that the sea remains clear, with no visible oil slicks, sheens, or leaks,” Tuvilla noted.

The PCG alerted local fisherfolk and coastal barangays about the incident. It has also conducted coastal security and seaborne patrols together with the local government of Romblon and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to monitor traces of oil sheens.

“As we speak, no foul odor was detected along the coastline and nearby waters,” the CGDSTL chief furthered.

Tuvilla urged coastal communities to report to authorities any sighting of oil sheen or debris possibly linked to the sunken LCT San Juan Bautista for prompt action.