19 crew rescued after ferry grounding incident in southern Philippines

The Philippine Coast Guard successfully rescued all 19 crew members of a locally registered ferry that ran aground off the coast of the southern Philippine city of Zamboanga on Friday, July 12. The Ro-Pax ferry Ciara Joie 1 was anchored about 0.5 nautical miles from shore when strong waves pushed it closer to shore until it ran aground in shallow water near the village of Rio Hondo.

The Coast Guard District Southwestern Mindanao dispatched personnel from multiple subordinate units to assist in the rescue operation shortly after the crew sent out a distress call. The 19 survivors were safely evacuated while the ferry is being monitored for any signs of contamination.

Local authorities have begun inspecting the hull for any damage. The coastguard added that the ferry captain has been informed to take appropriate action in the event of an oil spill or other pollution incident caused by the grounding.

There were no passengers on board the vessel at the time of the incident, due to heavy monsoon rains. Strong winds and heavy rains also damaged several smaller fishing boats that were in the area at the time, although no casualties were reported.