147 rescued from grounded vessel

CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna  , Philippines – At least 147 passengers were rescued after a vessel they were riding experienced engine trouble along the seashore of Pagbilao, Quezon, yesterday morning, the Regional Disaster Coordinating Council said.

Philippine Coast Guard spokesman Lieutenant Commander Armand Balilo said the M/V Lolong was traveling from Dalahican Port in Lucena City to Sta. Cruz in Marinduque. It is owned and operated by the DBP Maritime Laising Corp.

Based on the initial information they received, Balilo said at around 2 a.m. yesterday, the 147 gross ton ship departed from the Dalahican Port, but after 30 minutes of traveling it reportedly encountered engine trouble.

However, the problem was addressed immediately. The stranded passengers were asked to transfer to another ship, the M/V Gloria of Montenegro Shipping Lines, that brought them to Bala-nacan, Marinduque.