MANILA — On Tuesday morning, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Southern Tagalog saved seven crew members from a yacht that caught fire close to Tingloy Island in Batangas.
The Motor Yacht Allusive was cruising from Puerto Galera when the fire started, according to PCG Southern Tagalog commander Commodore Geronimo Tuvilla.
Shortly after 7 a.m., a sea marshal on a roll-on/roll-off vessel provided information, prompting Coast Guard troops to act quickly.
The crew members are currently receiving medical assessment at the PCG Southern Tagalog Medical Service; no injuries were reported.
The cause of the fire is still being looked into by the authorities.
According to reports, the yacht was en route to Nasugbu, Batangas, to compete.
According to the Philippine Coast Guard, the incident occurred around 2:30 PM when the yacht, reportedly on a recreational trip, suddenly erupted in flames. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Authorities received an emergency distress call and promptly dispatched rescue teams to the scene. The crew members managed to evacuate the vessel before the fire spread extensively. All seven were accounted for and reported unharmed.
The yacht was anchored near Tingloy Island when the fire broke out. Local fishermen and nearby vessels also assisted in the rescue operations.
Firefighters from the Batangas Fire Department arrived shortly after to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to nearby boats or the shoreline.
Officials are currently investigating the incident to determine the fire’s origin, with initial theories pointing to a possible electrical malfunction or engine overheating.
Authorities reminded boaters and vessel operators to perform regular maintenance checks and safety drills to prevent such incidents.
Tingloy Island, a popular destination known for its beaches and diving spots, has seen increased marine traffic this season. Authorities urge all seafarers to remain vigilant, especially during the holiday period, when recreational boating activity spikes.
