A Philippine-flagged motor tanker got stuck on the shallow waters of Surigao del Norte on Sunday, prompting the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to deploy personnel. The vessel was identified as MT Cheng Xian Feng 168, which was found along the shoreline of Poblacion 1 in the town of Burgos.
According to PCG spokesperson Captain Noemie Cayabyab, no oil spill was observed at the incident site. Technical assessment and verification, however, are ongoing—including the determination of possible hull breach—to ensure marine environmental protection.
“At approximately 4:30 a.m., joint authorities ensured the safety of nine Filipino crew members, including the master, who were brought ashore for further assistance and investigation. All crew members were in good physical condition and did not sustain any injuries,” Cayabyab shared.
Initial investigation revealed that MT Cheng Xian Feng 168, which weighs 712 gross tonnage, departed Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental on its way to Homonhon, Leyte. It experienced sudden engine trouble at around 1 p.m. on January 10, 2026, prompting the master to order the vessel to anchor.
However, due to strong currents and heavy waves, the motor tanker drifted and ran aground along the shoreline. The vessel was carrying approximately 3,500 liters of diesel fuel for consumption.
At around 7:50 a.m. on Sunday, the PCG coordinated towing operations for the aground vessel. An agent initiated arrangements to secure a towing boat operator in coordination with the vessel’s company.
