PCG: Merchant Vessel (MV) “Lite Ferry 28” caught fire at approximately 300 meters away from Taloot Port Argao, Cebu yesterday afternoon, September 2.

According to the report, MV “Lite Ferry 28” was enroute to Cebu Port from Tagbiliran, Bohol with 97 passengers, 27 crew and four rolling cargoes onboard when the incident transpired.

Immediately, PCG's Multi-Role Response Vessel (MRRV) 4404 “BRP Capones” was directed to proceed in the incident area to render necessary assistance.

Personnel of Coast Guard Sub-Station Argao assisted the passengers and crew of the vessel to be transferred to Landing Craft Tank (LCT) “Miami” which was plying nearby the incident area.

All passengers and crew were safely disembarked at Argao Port.

At 3:45PM of the same day, the fire was declared “controlled” by MRRV 4404.

Boarded by CGSS Argao and Bureau of Fire Protection personnel, the distress vessel was later towed by LCT “Miami” and escorted by MRRV 4404 to Taloot Wharf, Argao, Cebu for safety and further investigation.