Manila Bay Blaze: Crew Evacuates as Cargo Ship Ignites
image credits: PCG/X
Early on Sunday, March 31, 2025, the cargo ship MV Castphill XV experienced a fire while navigating southwest of Manila. This alarming incident prompted the crew to evacuate the vessel. Thankfully, the Philippine coast Guard (PCG) acted swiftly and successfully rescued all twelve crew members.
The fire erupted around 2:00 AM as the ship was near Patungan in Maragondon, Cavite. The PCG patrol boat BRP boracay (FPB-2401) arrived at approximately 4:27 AM and managed to save seven crew members, including their captain.Once rescued,they were taken to Pier 15 at South Harbor in Manila for medical evaluation. Fortunately, all individuals sustained only minor injuries.
By around 7:35 AM, another team from the Coast Guard sub-station in Maragondon located and brought back the remaining five crew members for further health checks.
INCIDENT REPORT: The Philippine Coast guard promptly addressed a fire incident involving MV CASTPHILL XV near Patungan Maragondon on March 30th.
— Philippine Coast Guard (@coastguardph) March 31, 2025
An investigation is currently underway to uncover what caused this blaze. Images from the scene depict fierce flames and thick smoke enveloping parts of the ship’s foredeck.
reports indicate that MV Castphill XV had set sail from Delpan in Manila early Saturday morning with its destination being Culion in Palawan. The cargo included various goods such as hardware supplies,rice sacks,cement bags,and fuel stored securely in metal containers.
The PCG has reiterated its dedication to ensuring maritime safety and its readiness to tackle emergencies effectively at sea. Vince Dizon, secretary of Transportation Department emphasized that maintaining maritime safety is a top priority across all agencies under his leadership—especially for those within PCG.Interestingly enough, while MV Castphill XV isn’t listed on international maritime registries; it’s believed to be associated with Mega Oil—a fuel distribution company based out of Manila. Observations from recent drydocking footage reveal that this customary stick boom coaster shows signs of wear-and-tear like dented plating along its stern area.
In light of this event—and similar incidents worldwide—it’s crucial for shipping companies everywhere to prioritize regular maintenance checks on their vessels not just for compliance but also for safeguarding lives at sea.
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