The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Station Zambales responded to a maritime incident involving LCT Aviva 80, which ran aground in the vicinity waters off Barangay Bani, Masinloc, Zambales yesterday, 02 July 2022.

Based on the investigation, the vessel, with 24 crew members on board, encountered strong winds and big waves, causing it to run aground.

The joint search and rescue (SAR) team, composed of PCG and Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel, used a rope connected to a life raft to rescue the crew onboard the distressed vessel.

They brought 22 of the 24 crew members to the Rural Health Unit of Masinloc where they were declared in good health condition. The Masinloc Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) took the rescued individuals for further assistance.

As of today, 03 July 2022, the joint SAR team continues its operation to rescue the boat captain and chief mate, who requested to stay on board the distressed vessel.

Meanwhile, the PCG's Marine Environmental Protection Group in Zambales inspected the vicinity waters where the incident occurred and found no trace of spilled oil.

UPDATE: The joint SAR team rescued the boat captain and chief mate at around 05:45 p.m.