Oil Product Tanker Capsizes & Sinks Off Bataan, Philippines

On July 25, around 1:10 AM local time, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported the capsizing of the oil product tanker Terra Nova. The vessel sank 3.6 nautical miles east of Lamao Point, Limay, Bataan, Philippines. At the time the tanker was carrying 1.4 million liters of Industrial Fuel Oil (IFO).

The PCG promptly launched a search and rescue operation, successfully rescuing 16 of the 17 crew members on board. Four of the rescued crew members are currently receiving medical treatment. Unfortunately, one crew member remains missing, and the search is ongoing with the assistance of the BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV-9702).

An oil spill has been reported, spreading 5.6 nautical miles east of Lamao Point. The spill has extended to approximately two nautical miles in length and is continuing to spread due to strong water currents. The Coast Guard Aviation Command is monitoring the situation, while the Environmental Protection team is actively working to contain the spill.

In response to the incident, the Philippine Coast Guard Commandant has ordered an investigation to determine the cause.

Terra Nova, a Singapore-flagged oil product tanker, is owned and managed by Shogun Ships Co Inc., Philippines. According to Marine Traffic data, the vessel departed from Limay port on July 22 and was scheduled to arrive at Iloilo.