CAPUL ISLAND, NORTHERN SAMAR - The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has rescued 21 crew members of agrounded vessel landing craft tank POSEIDON 34 in the waters off Sitio Malpal, Barangay San Luis, Capul Island, Northern Samar yesterday, 29 November 2019. 

Initial report revealed that POSEIDON 34 agrounded due to engine breakdown. The last port call of the vessel was at Legaspi City, Albay bound to Tagbilaran City, Bohol. 

Upon receipt of report, the PCG coordinated with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) in Capul to render assistance in the Search and Rescue (SAR) operation. 

The team attempted to rescue the crew before noon of 29 November, but the ship master declined the assistance, noting that were awaiting the arrival of their sister ship, POSEIDON 40, from Manilipot, Tabacco, Albay.

At 1 p.m., POSEIDON 40 arrived at the vicinity waters of Capul Island. The vessel attempted to tow the distressed POSEIDON 34, but it failed due to big waves and strong winds. 

POSEIDON 40 decided to temporary terminate the towing operation and proceed to Masbate Port.

An hour after the failed towing operation, the ship master declared POSEIDON 34 an abandoned ship and sought the assistance of PCG, PNP, and MDRRMO in Capul Island.

The 21 crew members were safely brought to Barangay San Luis, Capul Island where they were provided with further assistance.