The Fastcat-M11: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

In the wake of a maritime accident off the coast of Talisay City on October 18 at 8:45 p.m., the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) Region 7 has taken action by suspending the safety certificates of two vessels involved in a collision. The affected vessels are the 'Fastcat M11', a ferry that was transporting 70 passengers and 12 rolling cargoes from Cebu City to Tubigon, Bohol, and the cargo ship 'Ocean United', which had recently departed Talisay City heading for Cebu City. Captains Jerome Davalos and Jose Joel Gulfan are currently under preventive suspension as authorities conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. While they remain under scrutiny, both captains are permitted to board other ships and must fully cooperate with the investigation. Following the collision, the Coast Guard dispatched a rescue vessel equipped with a medical team to assist those in need. Fortunately, among those involved in the incident, four individuals suffered minor injuries. They have been identified as Daniel Fuentes (38), Manuel Veloso Jr. (48), Anacleto Dico Jr. (47), and Cary Angelo Bilga (28). All four are reported to be in stable condition following treatment. In addition to examining passenger safety, the Marine Environment Protection Team has confirmed that there were no oil spills resulting from the accident. Investigators are also assessing whether either vessel requires drydocking for necessary repairs. During this process, both the 'Fastcat M11' and 'Ocean United' will remain docked, unable to facilitate any travel until their safety certificates are reinstated. This incident highlights the critical importance of maritime safety regulations and the continued vigilance of maritime authorities. Further updates will be provided as investigations unfold.

On October 18, 2018, at approximately 8:45 PM, a significant maritime incident unfolded off the coast of Talisay City, located south of Cebu. The container vessel "Ocean United" was involved in a collision with the ferry "Fast Cat M11" at Lauis Ledge I. At the time of the incident, the Fast Cat M11 was carrying 70 passengers and was en route to Tubigon, Bohol, after the Ocean United arrived from Manila. The force of the collision inflicted severe damage to the stern of the ferry, resulting in the roof being torn off and several passenger seats displaced. In the aftermath, three passengers sustained injuries, identified as Daniel Fuentes, 38; Manuel Veloso Jr., 48; Anacleto Dico Jr., 47; and Cary Angelo Bilga, 28. Of these individuals, only Fuentes, Veloso, and Dico required hospitalization, while Bilga reported only minor injuries. Despite the damage, the ferry successfully navigated back to Cebu City, securing a berth at pier 3 under its own power. Following the incident, both vessels were held in Cebu to facilitate ongoing investigations.

The inaugural journey of the Fastcat M11 took an unexpected turn when the vessel ran aground off the coast of Bohol shortly after departing from Tubigon port on December 15, 2016. The incident occurred at approximately 5:50 p.m., just 20 minutes into its voyage to Cebu. Passengers on board experienced a sudden jolt accompanied by a loud noise, prompting the captain, Vicion Cadlina, to announce the grounding. Although the ship's engine ceased operations, the lights remained functional, ensuring some level of comfort for the 69 individuals on board, which included both passengers and crew members. By 8:30 p.m., the Fastcat M11 was confirmed to be situated five nautical miles from its point of origin, still firmly stuck on the rocky seabed. Fortunately, all passengers were reported safe. The Philippine Coast Guard personnel stationed in Tubigon were promptly dispatched to the scene, offering assistance to those wishing to return to the port. However, the majority of passengers chose to remain on the vessel, waiting for the sea level to rise, an occurrence anticipated around 10 p.m. In a surprising turn of events, the vessel was able to refloat itself prior to the expected time, allowing it to navigate back to Tubigon port as instructed by the Coast Guard. Following the incident, the Tagbilaran station has commenced an investigation to evaluate the circumstances surrounding the grounding. This event serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of maritime travel, even during maiden voyages.