Tugboat Capsizes After Bulker Strikes Towline Off Philippines Coast, 2 Dead
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A tragic accident occurred off the coast of Maasim, Sarangani Province, on March 25, 2025, when a Panamanian-flagged bulk carrier struck a tugboat’s towline, causing it to capsize and killing two of its crew members.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) launched a rescue operation, saving six survivors while later recovering the bodies of the tug’s captain and an oiler.
The accident occurred at approximately 4:20 am when the M/TUG Sadong 33, a Philippine-flagged tugboat was towing a cargo vessel, LCT Sea Asia, from Glan, Sarangani, to Iligan City.
Per reports, the bulk carrier Universe Kiza (also referred to as Universe Kaisa), registered in Panama and owned by a Chinese company, attempted to pass between the tug and the barge, hitting the towline and causing the tug to overturn.
PCG dispatched four ships carrying divers and emergency response teams. The six rescued crew members underwent medical evaluations and were confirmed to be in good conditions.
However, search teams later recovered the bodies of the two dead crew members.
The bulk carrier, built in 2004 and weighing 28,388 dwt, was transporting a shipment of concrete from Vietnam. It was ordered to process to General Santos City and has since been detained for investigation.
The PCG has ordered its legal officers to file appropriate charges against the vessel’s master and crew.
As a precautionary measure, oil booms were deployed around the capsized tug to prevent potential pollution. Though no oil spill has been reported.
The PCG has assigned the salvage company Harbor Star to recover the sunken tug. Authorities have ensured a full investigation into the circumstances that led to the tragedy.
AIS tracking data shows that the Universe Kiza arrived in General Santos City on March 26, 2025. The vessel previously detained in China in September 2024 due to multiple safety deficiencies, including issues related to navigation lights and watertight conditions.
The ship’s technical management is handled by Shenzhen Penghai Shipping, while its insurance is covered by the West of England Shipowners P&I Club in the UK.
References: PCG, Phil Star
Source: Maritime Shipping News