A commercial ship hoisting a foreign flag rammed a Filipino fishing boat in the West Philippine Sea, killing three fishermen and injuring 11 others early Monday morning.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said the incident occurred at around 4:20 a.m. while the Filipino fishing boat, FFB Dearyn, was moored to a “payao” or a raft used to attract and catch fish 85 nautical miles northwest of Bajo de Masinloc, also locally known as Panatag Shoal.
The PCG said the commercial vessel, which has not yet been identified, rammed the Filipino fishing boat, causing it to sink.
Three fishermen, including the boat captain, died in the incident. Their remains have been transported to Barangay Cato in Infanta, Pangasinan.
Meanwhile, the 11 surviving crew members of FFB Dearyn have been rescued and are now safe.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday said he was “deeply saddened” by the incident and has ordered the PCG to investigate the matter and provide assistance to the victims and their families.
The PCG has advised the owner of FFB Dearyn to file a marine protest.
Source: PhilNews24 | October 4, 2023
