KZ Galvan

An initially anchored cargo vessel, LCT GT Express, collided with a passenger vessel, MV Kamilla with an 18-member crew that caused a fire onboard along Navotas Anchorage Area, Manila Bay, on Sept. 2.

Photo Courtesy of Philippine STAR.

The passenger vessel was also anchored when the tropical cyclone Enteng’s strong winds swept LCT GT Express away from its post and hit MV Kamilla’s bridge.

Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said in a released statement that it “tried to deploy a floating asset to assist the crew but failed to do so due to strong currents and unfavorable weather conditions.” 

The affected crew reported that the fire broke out around 9:19 a.m. and they were forced to abandon the ship at 10:50 a.m. 

“MTUG Phil Leyte reported they rescued 17 of the 18 crew and brought them to the CGSS Navotas at around 11:15AM. BFP Navotas Medical Team provided medical assistance to the rescued individuals,” the PCG reported.

The last crew member was rescued near Barangay Sipac-Almacen, while all rescued individuals were provided with medical assistance by the Bureau of Fire Protection Navotas Medical Team. 

“Meanwhile, the PCG deploys BRP Suluan (MRRV-4406) to conduct firefighting and advises the master to file a marine protest at the Coast Guard Station (CGS) Manila,” the PCG added.

In addition, over eight other vessels ran aground in the waters near Navotas City. 

In Barangay San Roque, four vessels—Barge ASC Regine and MTKR Patriot II, both damaged against the seawall, and MTKR EBC Maricel VI—ran aground.

Near Barangay Bagumbayan North, Navotas City, two more vessels, Barge ASC Regine and MTKR Patriot III, also ran aground.

The same occurred with MTKR EBC Maricel VI in Barangay San Roque, while Barge Tambalan drifted and was towed to the Navotas Fish Port Complex.

On the same day as the collision involving MV Kamilla, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported intensive rains and strong winds, particularly affecting parts of Luzon.