Vessel returns to port due to rotor problem

CEBU, Philippines -  A fast craft aborted its trip to Bohol after its crew noticed that its impeller, a rotor used to increase or decrease the pressure and flow of fluid, started to heat up.

Lite Jet 1 was carrying 44 passengers bound for Tubigon, Bohol. It departed Cebu at 6:30 am yesterday when it encountered the problem near Lawis Ledge in Talisay City.

Vessel captain Isagana Aspacio decided to go back to Pier 1 in Cebu City and transferred its passengers to another vessel, Starcraft.

“Their action was preventive in nature. They returned to Pier 1 before the situation gets worse,” Cebu Coast Guard Commander Rolando Punzalan, Jr. said.

 Lite Jet 1 owned by Lite Shipping Corporation. The vessel had 16 crew.  Punzalan said the passengers did not panic as they were properly informed of the problem.

The passengers on board Starcraft arrived in Tubigon, Bohol at 8:30 am., an hour delayed of its original expected time of arrival.

Although they arrived late, the passengers were thankful that they were safe, Punzalan added.

Punzalan said it was a blessing that the captain noticed the problem immediately as the situation could cause the vessel “engine derangement” or worse, fire.

“Because of high temperature, the engine will be damaged or it could explode,” Punzalan said.

Punzalan said the ship captain needs to file a marine protest before the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) within 24 hours to avoid facing possible lawsuits. — (FREEMAN)