The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has recovered two bodies from the wreckage of MV Hong Hai 16, a sand carrier that capsized off the coast of Barangay Malawaan, Rizal, Occidental Mindoro, earlier this week.

The vessel overturned approximately 100 meters from shore on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, leaving several crew members missing and four reportedly dead including a Chinese national.

Divers from the PCG, working alongside partner agencies, have been tirelessly searching the submerged vessel.

One body was recovered from the vessel’s accommodation area during the second dive on Saturday afternoon, while a second was found in Cargo Hold No. 1 during the third dive.

The identities of both deceased individuals are yet to be confirmed.

The PCG has also been conducting environmental monitoring in the area, with water samples sent for laboratory analysis to assess any potential threat to marine life.

“At this time, no significant environmental threat has been identified,” the PCG said in a statement.

The owner of MV Hong Hai 16 has contracted a professional salvor to assist in recovering the vessel.

Salvage equipment is expected to arrive on-site by Monday, April 21, 2025.

The PCG continues to coordinate search and rescue efforts and will provide further updates as the situation develops.

Photos courtesy of the Philippine Coast Guard