The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is escalating search and rescue efforts for seven individuals missing after the MV Hong Hai 16 capsized off Occidental Mindoro on April 15, 2025, at approximately 5:20 p.m.

The vessel, operated by Keen Peak Corporation, was carrying sand when it sank in waters near Barangay Malawaan, Rizal.

Of the 25 crew members—13 Filipinos and 12 Chinese—14 were rescued, including six Filipinos and eight Chinese.

One Chinese crew member was found dead, and seven Filipinos and three Chinese remain missing.

PCG teams from Coast Guard Sub-Stations San Jose and Sablayan, alongside the Special Operations Unit and Marine Environmental Protection Enforcement Response Group, are deployed with response teams.

The Coast Guard Special Operations Group Southern Tagalog is conducting underwater assessments and preparing for diving and cutting operations.

Initial visual inspections indicate the ship is partially submerged but upright, with possible crew members trapped in the engine room.

Commodore Geronimo Tuvilla, commander of Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog, said the PCG issued a demand letter to the ship owner, urging cooperation and a representative’s presence to support operations.

PCG is coordinating with Rizal’s local government, led by Mayor Ernesto Pablo, as well as the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police Maritime Group, and Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office is on standby to deploy oil spill containment booms if needed.

Mayor Pablo echoed the PCG’s call for the ship owner’s accountability and assistance.

According to reports, the ship has been conducting dredging of sands in the area. It was not immediately known if the dredging was permitted by the DENR.

Tuvilla expressed gratitude to Rizal’s local government and the provincial disaster office for their support.

PCG and LGU authorities are investigating the incident to determine its cause and assess responsibility.

Photos: courtesy of Philippine Coast Guard