INCIDENT REPORT: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) responds to a maritime incident involving a Chinese-flagged bulk carrier, MV ZHE HAI 168, that ran aground at the vicinity waters approximately 2.7 nautical miles off the shoreline of Barangay Sulangan, Guiuan, Eastern Samar.

Based on the investigation, the bulk carrier, with 20 Chinese crew on board, was transporting nickel ore from Homonhon Island, Eastern Samar, to Caofeidian (China) when the accident occurred at around 06:10PM on 18 April 2023.

The Coast Guard Sub-Station Guiuan, Marine Environmental Protection Unit (MEPU), and MV ZHE HAI 168's agent, Mr. Rogelio Roble, conducted an ocular inspection with DENR and LGU representatives on 19 April 2023.

The Chinese crew confirmed no leakage/damage inside the vessel.

The MEPU also conducted a surface assessment for possible traces of oil spill and yielded a negative result.

On 22 April 2023, the PCG launched a marine casualty investigation (MCI) regarding the accident with MV ZHE HAI 168's Captain, Mr. Jiang Shangjun.

Today, 27 April 2023, the PCG prepares for the arrival of a salvage team from Singapore to conduct operations.

They will temporarily transfer the cargo to a barge and pull out the ship.

The Coast Guard Sub-Station Guiuan will supervise the salvage operations and ensure no spillage will occur by installing oil spill booms.

After the successful pull-out of the bulk carrier, the PCG will conduct another hull assessment.

Meanwhile, DENR-EMB divers will also evaluate the condition of corals at the marine protected area near the vicinity waters for damage claims.

[Progress report to follow]