Chinese crew member dead, 10 missing after vessel capsized off Occidental Mindoro

Metro Manila, Philippines - A Chinese national died after a sand carrier vessel capsized in the waters off Occidental Mindoro on Tuesday, April 15, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said.

It said search and rescue operations are ongoing to look for seven Filipinos and three Chinese crew members of Motor Vessel Hong Hai 16, reportedly operated by Keen Peak Corp.

“Search and rescue operations are ongoing, including underwater assessments and preparation for diving operations and cutting work by the Coast Guard Special Operations Group Southern Tagalog,” the coast guard said in a statement on Wednesday.

“Per initial visual assessment, the vessel remains upright but partially submerged, with possible trapped personnel in the engine room,” they added.

The PCG said six Filipinos and eight Chinese crew members survived.

MV Hong Hai 16 overturned under moderate sea conditions near Barangay Malawaan, Rizal in Occidental Mindoro on Tuesday afternoon.

Various PCG personnel were immediately deployed to the scene after Bantay Dagat Rizal reported the maritime incident.

They also coordinated with the province’s disaster management office for the possible deployment of oil spill containment booms.