SHIP ON FIRE. MV Diamond Highway burns off the coast of Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu on Friday (April 28, 2023). The Bureau of Fire Protection declared a "fire out" on the burning ship early Saturday morning (April 29). (Photo courtesy of Philippine Coast Guard)
MANILA – The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) declared a "fire out" on the burning ship off Punta Engaño, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu early Saturday morning.
In an update, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said the fire onboard MV Diamond Highway was put out around 12:35 a.m. by BFP Lapu-Lapu with assistance from PCG Sub-Station Lapu-Lapu and Marine Environmental Protection Unit - Central Visayas.
“Harbor Star's MTUG STARGAS also augments the firefighting operations,” the PCG said.
Based on initial investigation, the fire started from the ship’s starboard bow while workers were cutting down the vessel for scrap.
Pilipinas Precious Metal Resources Inc. supervisor Butch Orasaga said all workers aboard the vessel were able to disembark safely.
MV Diamond Highway is a car carrier that ran aground during the onslaught of Typhoon Odette in December 2021 and was undergoing salvage operations for its disposal.
The PCG continues its investigation into the incident to find the cause of the fire. (PNA)
