The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) confirmed that LCT Felicity 8, a landing craft tank, ran aground in the vicinity waters off Brgy. Wawa Ibaba, Lemery, Batangas, on November 9, amid strong winds and currents brought by Super Typhoon Uwan.
According to the PCG, the vessel had been sheltering in Pagapas Bay, Calatagan, Batangas, when adverse sea conditions caused it to drift toward shallow waters.
The incident was initially reported to the Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Lemery.
CGSS Lemery personnel, in coordination with the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office Lemery, proceeded to the scene to verify the report and assess the vessel’s condition.
PCG officials said in a statement on November 11 that “LCT Felicity 8 was found stable with no significant structural damage, and all crew members were confirmed to be safe and in good physical condition. No oil spill or marine pollution has been observed in the affected waters.”
The Philippine Coast Guard has directed the vessel’s operating company to deploy a tugboat to facilitate a safe towing operation while coordinating with the Local Government Unit of Lemery and other response agencies.
A marine casualty investigation has also been launched to determine the circumstances of the grounding and to assess compliance with safety and navigational protocols.
CGSS Lemery continues to monitor the vessel and maintain communication with the vessel’s master. The PCG emphasized that safety protocols remain in effect to protect life, property, and the marine environment.
