PCG: Elements of Coast Guard District Central Visayas (CGDCV) together with two multi-role response vessels, BRP Capones (MRRV-4404) and BRP Suluan (MRRV-4406), successfully put out a fire at cargo vessel M/V “Andrea Princess 2” while anchored at vicinity waters of Asian Grains, City of Naga, Cebu, yesterday April 22.

Around 8:00PM yesterday, CGDCV received information through a call from Vessel Traffic Management System Cebu informing that MV “Andrea Princess 2” was on fire at the said area. 

Immediately, CGDCV fire fighting team and the MRRVs’ proceeded to the area of incident and rendered necessary assistance.  

The Coast Guard Medical team rendered first aid to the 20 Filipino crew of said vessel while Coast Guard Marine Environmental protection team found no evidence of possible oil spill. 

PCG Station Naga personnel conducted initial inquiry to the skipper of the vessel, Captain Dario Castañares. Investigation revealed that the crew were conducting welding on the hydraulic hatch of the vessel’s cargo hold on its forward portion, where pile of woods and paints were stored when the fire ensued. Ship’s crew then conducted fire fighting using its available portable fire pump. The vessel was loaded with 8,570 liters of fuel oil (diesel), 100 liters lube oil and 16 sacks of copra.

Fire was under control around 10:30PM. The Station Commander of Coast Guard Station (CGS) Cebu, Commander Alvin Dagalea declared fire out at 11:59PM.

CGS Cebu advised the Master of the vessel to file marine protest within 24 hours, and to detail watchers for monitoring of any possible re-occurrence of fire.