The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) conducts firefighting and rescue operations in response to a maritime incident involving a passenger-cargo vessel, MV ESPERANZA STAR, that caught on fire in the vicinity waters off Panglao, Bohol, today, 18 June 2023.

Based on the initial investigation, the distressed vessel skippered by Captain Desiderio Labiste Jr. had approximately 120 passengers and crew members on board. 

It departed from Port of Lazi, Siquijor, to Port of Tagbilaran, Bohol.

Personnel of the BRP Malamawi (FPB-2403), Coast Guard Sub-Station Tagbilaran, and Coast Guard Special Operations Unit-Tagbilaran are performing the said operations.

[Progress report to follow]

UPDATE #2: https://www.facebook.com/coastguardph/videos/1375877729936715

UPDATE #3: https://www.facebook.com/coastguardph/posts/pfbid02MJnMUVWKNkPPkSH9fRSG9NR3AdehBRK1EMFcBAozskPB6Ae2mJ8hDLVuraLopLBAl