Ten injured as fishing boat explodes off Surigao del Norte

November 6, 2020

Ten seafarers were injured following an explosion on their fishing boat off the waters of Surigao del Norte on Tuesday, the Philippine Coast Guard reported on Friday.

Based on initial investigation, twenty two fishermen onboard FBCA Jhieron Jay  88 left Surigao del Norte to fish in the Pacific Ocean when the explosion occurred at approximately 15 nautical miles east off Socorro, Surigao del Norte.

“While transiting, gasoline accidentally spilled over towards the engine compartment and gradually spread towards the main engine and the LPG tank at the galley. Said incident triggered sudden ignition, causing the LPG tank to explode,” said PCG.

“Immediately, the seafarers jumped on the water and abandoned the burning fishing boat...Fortunately, they were rescued by fishing boat, Lovedel that transited the incident area,” it added.

Lovedel Captain Mario Judy Pasmabo reported the incident to the PCG Station in Surigao del Norte to seek assistance. Lovedel met the PCG rescue team at Hinatuan Passage.

“Of the 22 rescued Filipino seafarers, four suffered major burn injuries, while six suffered minor burn injuries. The remaining 12 individuals were in good physical condition,” said PCG.

Upon arrival at the Surigao Baseport, the injured fishermen were received by five ambulances and medical personnel from the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, as well as the Philippine National Police – Maritime Unit XIII for transport to the nearest hospital, PCG said. Robina Asido/DMS