The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Station Western Sulu responded to a maritime incident involving a half-submerged vessel, "MV Melyn Express," in the vicinity waters off Tanjung Pier, Barangay Kajatian, Indanan, Sulu, yesterday, 16 January 2023.

According to the ship's captain, Mr. Muntasir Karanain, they departed from Malaysia bound for Jolo, Sulu, with ten other crew members on board.

While approaching Tanjung Pier for a docking maneuver, the vessel ran aground as it accidentally navigated in shallow waters approximately 30 meters from the said port.

The incident damaged the vessel's keel and started taking in seawater until it reached the main engine, causing it to become half-submerged.

The PCG team proceeded to the area to assist the crew, who were all in good physical condition. They were evacuated for further assistance.

The oil spill assessment conducted by the PCG's marine environmental protection unit also yielded a negative result.

As of today, 17 January 2023, the PCG team continues to secure the distressed vessel while waiting to be pulled out of the water.