The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) responds to a vessel collision in the vicinity waters of Maasim, Sarangani Province, today, 25 March 2025.

Based on the initial investigation, Philippine flagged-tugboat, M/TUG Sadong 33, and Panamanian-flagged vessel, MV Universe Kiza, collided at around 4:20AM.

Upon receiving the report, the PCG immediately deployed a search and rescue (SAR) team and three floating assets to conduct a SAR operation.

According to the company’s project engineer who reported the incident, M/TUG Sadong 33 had eight crew on board.

As of 8AM, the Coast Guard SAR team reported that six of the eight crew have been rescued and are now in good physical condition.

However, they also confirmed the untimely demise of M/TUG Sadong 33’s captain with the recovery of his cadaver in the incident vicinity waters.

As of press time, the Coast Guard SAR team continues to locate the last missing crew.

Meanwhile, the PCG also conducted an oil spill assessment and yielded a negative result.