THE PHILIPPINE Coast Guard (PCG) is investigating the grounding incident of cargo vessel M/V GY Bellatrix, which ran aground off the coast of Davao Oriental on May 3, 2024.
Coast Guard District South Eastern Mindanao chief of staff Lt Commander Angel Tobias, said a critical investigation session was held on May 8, led by the Commander of Coast Guard Station Davao Oriental.
Representatives from GY Shipping Lines Inc., including Captain Enrico B Dagatan Jr., and personnel from the Maritime Safety and Security Unit of Southeastern Mindanao (MSSU-SEM) were present.
During the proceedings, Captain Dagatan agreed to submit the Special Permit to Navigate (SPN) once issued.
A Vessel Safety Enforcement Inspection (VSEI) team conducted a comprehensive inspection and identified potential damage to the hull’s transverse frame, affecting the fuel and ballast compartments. The team recommended immediate repairs within three months, along with updated navigational charts and nautical publications required before the vessel could depart for its next port.
M/V GY Bellatrix also faces a penalty under safety enforcement guidelines, which must be settled before receiving clearance to proceed to its next destination.
In a separate development, the Coast Guard’s Special Operations Unit (SOU) supports the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office and local tourism authorities in assessing potential environmental damage to coral reefs around Cape San Agustin, located near the grounding site.
Tobias said the Coast Guard will provide further updates as the investigation and environmental assessment progress.
She said they remain committed to ensuring adherence to maritime and environmental regulations for the safety and preservation of the region’s marine resources.
