Non-Naval Security

Over 100 rescued after ferry runs aground in southern Philippines

Baird Maritime

The Philippine Coast Guard successfully rescued all 103 passengers and crew of a ferry after it ran aground just off the southern island province of Camiguin on Sunday, October 9.

The Ro-Pax vessel Super Shuttle Ferry 21 was manoeuvring to berth at Camiguin's Benoni Port when its hull made bottom contact in a nearby shallow area at around 14:35 local time on Sunday.

The coast guard deployed to the area to evacuate the passengers and crew. No injuries have been reported.

The passengers were later transferred to another ferry to resume their voyage to their intended destination.

An inspection of the ferry's hull showed no signs of damage or pollution resulting from the incident.

An initial investigation revealed that Super Shuttle Ferry 21's steering system was switched off at the time, making manoeuvring difficult.

The captain said the crew did not notice that the system was switched off until just moments before their vessel ran aground.