THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) conducted a rescue operation for MV Lapu-Lapu Ferry 1 in the waters off Catarman Point, Leyte, on July 28.
At approximately 3 a.m. on the same date, MV Lapu-Lapu Ferry 1 with 144 passengers on board, suffered engine failure and conked out, then began drifting eastward at 1.5 knots toward Baybay City Port.
Coast Guard Station (CGS) Western Leyte, in coordination with Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Baybay, promptly activated its Quick Response Team (QRT).
Immediate coordination was carried out with the crew of MV Celsa 2, which was docked at Baybay Port.
Simultaneously, CGSS Baybay dispatched a high-speed boat to assist in the rescue operation.
The QRT, aboard MV Celsa 2 and accompanied by HSRB-041, proceeded to the location of the distressed vessel.
Upon arrival, the team rendered immediate assistance and commenced ship-side towing operations from the vessel’s starboard side.
As of press time, the rescue and towing operations have been successfully completed.
The vessel, along with all passengers, safely arrived at Baybay City Port. Vince Lopez
