A fastcraft from Iloilo carrying 53 passengers developed engine trouble at sea as it was nearing the BREDCO Port in Bacolod City, Thursday afternoon, Dec. 7, and had to be towed in, the Philippine Coast Guard reported.
Marine Vessel General Santos owned by Montenegro Shipping Lines was about 1.1 nautical miles away from the Bredco Port when the incident happened, CPO Louie Campaner, PCG-Bacolod Substation commander, said.
At about 1:40 p.m. they received a report from the operations manager of Montenegro Lines that their fastcraft developed mechanical trouble, he said.
M/Tug Sadr towed the vessel to the port and it arrived safely at about 2:30 p.m., Campaner said.
He also assured that the 53 passengers arrived safely.
The Coast Guard said that M/V General Santos will not be allowed to operate until they get the clearance from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA).*