A vessel owned by domestic roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) shipping company Starlite Ferries, Inc. sank between Puerto Galera and Maricaban Island in Mindoro on December 26 after it was buffeted by gale-force winds and huge waves while preparing for the typhoon.
In a statement on December 26, Starlite said MV Starlite Atlantic, while sheltering in preparation for Typhoon Nina, experienced a continuous barrage of strong winds and rough waves that caused it to sink with crewmen on board. No passengers and cargo were on the ship during the incident, which was between 10:20 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Of the 34 crew members, 15 were rescued while 19 were missing as of December 26. There were reports of one casualty, but the Philippine Coast Guard, as of December 26, declined to confirm until rescuers have returned.
In an update on December 27, Starlite said 18 crew members were still missing, as sea and aerial search and rescue operations continued using seaplanes, choppers, and tug boats.
“We are closely coordinating with all LGUs (local government units) of Puerto Galera, Maricaban Island, Lobo Batangas for Bantay Dagat. As of now, all rescue efforts are being carried out and we are positively hoping to rescue all missing crewmen. There will be a sitrep (situation report) every hour,” Starlite said.
It added that it “deeply regrets this untoward accident and will be giving updates as soon as they become available.”
The company provides ro-ro transport services on routes from Batangas to Calapan, Mindoro Roxas to Caticlan, and Mindoro Roxas to Odiongan.
