MANILA — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Sunday took custody of 15 Filipino survivors and two deceased crew members of the Singapore-flagged MV Devon Bay, which capsized off Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal.
The turnover operation with the China Coast Guard (CCG) occurred about 311 kilometers west of Tambobong, Pangasinan. PCG spokesperson Capt. Noemie Cayabyab said the survivors were transferred using rigid-hull inflatable boats due to rough sea conditions.
The two deceased crew members will undergo proper disposition in coordination with authorities and their families, the PCG said. The 17 crew members are now aboard BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701), which is expected to arrive at Pier 13, Port Area, Manila, early Monday morning.
The PCG continues search and rescue operations for the four remaining missing crew members, using BRP Cape San Agustin (MRRV-4408) and a PCG Islander aircraft.
MV Devon Bay, carrying iron ore, had 21 Filipino crew members and departed Gutalac, Zamboanga del Norte, for Guangdong, China. Its last known position was about 262 kilometers west of Sabangan Point, Ango Bay, Pangasinan, at 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 22.
The CCG first conducted the rescue after receiving a PCG radio call for assistance. The PCG also deployed vessels and aircraft to support search and rescue operations.