Barge runs aground off Negros; fisherman missing in Quezon

MANILA, Philippines — A barge loaded with 1,600 metric tons of industrial coal ran aground in Negros Oriental on Wednesday, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported yesterday.

TML Blue Sky Jay was being towed by motor tug TML The CEO in the waters off Barangay Okiot in Bais City when the accident occurred.

The barge and the motor tug were headed to Barangay Campuyo in Manjuyod town when they encountered rough sea condition.

The towing rope of the motor tug reportedly got entangled with its propeller, preventing it from maneuvering the barge.

The PCG said it is monitoring the arrival of a tugboat that will tow the distressed vessels during high tide.

It advised the captain to file a marine protest.

In Quezon on Wednesday, five fishermen were rescued while another remained missing when their boat capsized off the coast of Sitio Macnit in Barangay Languyin in Patnanungan, Polilio Island.

Lt. Gen. Rhoderick Armamento, Area Police Command-Southern Luzon commander, said the boat capsized amid strong winds.

Commodore Geronimo Tuvilla, PCG-Southern Luzon district commander, said search and rescue operations for the missing fisherman were terminated due to adverse weather and sea conditions.