By Divina Blanc
MANILA – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Sunday received 15 survivors and two deceased crew members of the cargo vessel M/V Devon Bay from the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) in a turnover operation conducted about 168 nautical miles west of Tambobong, Pangasinan.
The rescued crew were transferred to the PCG using rigid-hull inflatable boats amid rough sea conditions. The two recovered cadavers are now under proper care, with arrangements coordinated closely with authorities and the families of the deceased.
PCG spokesperson Captain Noemie Cayabyab thanked the CCG for their humanitarian cooperation, emphasizing the shared commitment to safety at sea.
“BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701) is scheduled to arrive at Pier 13, Port Area, Manila, early morning on January 26,” Cayabyab said.
Search and rescue efforts continue for the four remaining crew members reported missing. BRP Cape San Agustin (MRRV-4408) and a PCG Islander aircraft remain deployed in the area to assist in locating the missing sailors.
The M/V Devon Bay, carrying 21 Filipino crew members, capsized on January 23 approximately 141 nautical miles west of Pangasinan, within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. The Singaporean-flagged vessel was transporting iron ore from Guatalac, Zamboanga del Sur, to Yangjiang, China.
