The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Monday reported that a total of 506 passengers were rescued from a ship that ran aground in the shallow waters off Jagna Port in the province of Bohol.
“In a swift and coordinated maritime response, the Coast Guard District Central Visayas (CGDCV) successfully ensured the safe transfer of all 506 passengers from MV Lite Ferry 5, which ran aground in shallow waters off Jagna Port, Bohol, on the night of 19 April 2025,” the CGDCV said in a statement.
The vessel, which was en route to Cagayan de Oro, was maneuvering to depart when it drifted into shallow waters due to low tide—approximately 200 meters from the port. A concerned citizen alerted the Coast Guard Substation in Jagna.
“Verification with the vessel’s Master confirmed the situation, prompting an immediate deployment of response teams. All passengers were safely returned to port by dawn on 20 April, with no reported injuries, through the coordinated efforts of the PCG, Philippine Navy, MDRRMO Jagna, Bantay Dagat, and local fisherfolk,” the CGDCV added.
Initial inspections conducted by the CGDCV revealed no internal hull damage. However, a full marine safety and environmental assessment is currently underway.
As of posting time, a tugboat from Cebu was en route to extract the vessel from its current position.
“The operation, conducted under the leadership of Commodore Weniel Azcuna, Commander of the Coast Guard District Central Visayas, demonstrates the Philippine Coast Guard’s dedication to ensuring maritime safety, executing swift responses, and fostering effective inter-agency cooperation in the face of unforeseen maritime incidents,” the CGDCV said.