The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has assisted the Motorized Tugboat JCPCI Sofia after the vessel encountered engine trouble in the waters off Maricaban Island, in Calatagan, Batangas
The PCG said its response team was mobilized to respond to Pablito Solibaga–the vessel’s captain—who request for towing assistance.
Based on the investigation, the MTug JCPCI Sofia departed from a dry dock in Lucena, Quezon, going to Navotas. At around 6:15 am, while passing through Calatagan, the distressed motor tugboat ran aground, which damaged its rudder post and caused steering issues.
The Coast Guard response team confirmed all MTug JCPCI Sofia’s on board documents were complete and valid.
Three crew members were safely transferred to MTug Mimosa of Harbor Star Shipping Services Inc.
MTug Captain Solibaga decided to remain on board to oversee the towing operations.
MTug Mimosa towed the distressed motor tugboat and it reached Bauan Anchorage Area at around 1:48AM on 04 May 2024.
At around 2AM, it was safely anchored 300 meters away from Bauan Port.
The Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog (CGDSTL) said MTug JCPCI Sofia will undergo assessment by MTP Marine Services for repair of its damaged rudder post.