Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 18) — A passenger ferry caught fire as it approached the Port of Tagbilaran in Bohol province Sunday morning, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said.
The PCG said MV Esperanza Star of Kho Shipping Lines was from Port of Lazi in Siquijor and it was set to dock at 4:30 a.m. at the Port of Tagbilaran.
The PCG is yet to confirm reports that fire broke out on the vessel at 3:50 am.
Bohol Provincial Disaster Management chief Anthony Damalerio said the PCG is still investigating the cause of the fire, which was declared out around 10 a.m.
According to PCG-7 Commander Mark Larsen Mariano, 55 crew members and 65 passengers were rescued from MV Esperanza Star.
The management of Kho Shipping Lines said all passengers and crew of MV Esperanza Star are safe and are now “being taken care of” by the company.
Damalerio said fishing boats and a Trans Asia ship responded to rescue the passengers and crew members of MV Esperanza Star.
Personnel of the BRP Malamawi, Coast Guard Sub-Station Tagbilaran, and Coast Guard Special Operations Unit-Tagbilaran have conducted firefighting and rescue operations.
The PCG said that currently, BRP Cape San Agustin (MRRV-4408) at BRP Malamawi (FPB-2403) remain in the waters off Panglao to continue monitoring the burned ferry.
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