The Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog (CGDSTL) and other concerned government agencies are investigating the sunken Landing Craft Tank (LCT) San Juan Bautista in the waters between Romblon and Sibuyan Island on Monday, 30 June 2025.

Six Filipino crew members were safely rescued by Fishing Vessel Skip Jack Cri 03 around 12:40AM and were found in good physical condition.

Initial coordination with the vessel’s master confirmed that the distressed vessel departed Guihulngan Port, Negros Oriental, on 28 June 2025, bound for drydocking in Navotas City, carrying 2,500 liters of marine diesel oil and no cargo on board.

“Based on the PCG’s initial assessment, the risk of environmental damage in Southern Tagalog is low since the fuel is a light petroleum product that should dissipate quickly. The estimated 360-foot depth minimizes coral reef impact, and natural processes like dispersion and biodegradation further reduce the likelihood of significant shoreline or marine ecosystem damage,” the CGDSTL said.

The PCG continuously coordinates with the crew, local officials, and concerned government agencies to verify details surrounding the incident, including the vessel’s last position and condition prior to sinking.

“We have alerted local fisherfolk and coastal barangays and, together with the LGU of Romblon and the DENR, we have conducted coastal security and seaborne patrols to monitor traces of oil sheens. As we speak, no foul odor was detected along the coastline and nearby waters,” the CGDSTL furthered.

“An aerial surveillance was also conducted at around 6:30AM yesterday, 01 July 2025, to locate the wreckage or detect any signs of pollution. Observations confirmed that the sea remains clear, with no visible oil slicks, sheens, or leaks,” the District emphasized.

The PCG urges coastal communities to immediately report any sighting of oil sheen or debris possibly linked to the sunken LCT San Juan Bautista for a prompt action.