On May 21, 2023, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) responded to a vessel collision involving the MV St. Jhudiel and the LCT Poseidon 23 in the waters off Barangay Looc, Mandaue City, Cebu.
MV St. Jhudiel, carrying 197 passengers, departed Ormoc City, Leyte, for Cebu City. It experienced steering casualties and engine failure while underway, causing it to collide with LCT Poseidon 23, which was on its way to Ormoc City from Mandaue City.
According to the master of the MV St. Jhudiel, 25 passengers suffered minor injuries. When the collision happened, LCT Poseidon 23 was carrying 17 rolling cargoes and 20 drivers/cargo helpers. It returned to its port of origin (Ouano Wharf, Mandaue City) to assess the accident-related damages.
Coast Guard response
To give the necessary aid, the PCG promptly deployed a floating asset, a land vehicle, and an ambulance. Furthermore, the Coast Guard Marine Environmental Protection Force – Central Visayas was ordered to assess any oil leak.
The masters of the vessels were urged by the Coast Guard Station Central Cebu to file marine protests.
Meanwhile, they directed the Maritime Safety Services Unit to conduct a marine casualty investigation. Coast Guard Special Operations Group – Central Visayas also assisted with the search and rescue operations.
