Crew Reviews, Ratings & Info for Universe-Kaisa

In a devastating maritime incident that occurred on March 25, 2025, at approximately 4:20 a.m. LT, the Philippine-flagged tugboat 'Sadong 33' capsized after being struck by the bulk carrier 'Universe Kaisa.' The collision took place in the waters near Maasim, Sarangani Province, when the tug's towline snapped and the bulk carrier, on its voyage to Iligan City, sailed over it. The 'Sadong 33' was towing a 59-meter-long landing craft, the LCT 'Sea Asia' (IMO: 8843551), as they navigated from Glan, Sarangani to Iligan City, with a towline measuring between 50 to 100 meters. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) wasted no time in responding to the distress call, deploying a Search and Rescue (SAR) team along with three boats to the scene of the tragedy. By 8:00 a.m., the SAR team successfully rescued six crew members who were found in good health. However, they tragically discovered the bodies of two crew members: the tug's captain, Andres Diaz Jr., and an oiler, John Jeter Labor, both confirmed deceased. Initially, one crew member was reported missing but was later recovered by the team. In the wake of the incident, the PCG has mandated the Coast Guard District Southern Mindanao to launch a maritime casualty investigation, while the Harbor Star Salvage Company has been commissioned to retrieve the downed tugboat. Following the collision, the PCG carried out an oil assessment and reported no indications of oil pollution in the area. Meanwhile, the 'Universe Kaisa,' which is under Chinese ownership, has been detained and relocated to anchor at General Santos City. The Coast Guard’s legal officers are preparing to file charges against the ship's master and crew for their involvement in the fatal collision. The bulk carrier was reportedly transporting a cargo of concrete from Vietnam at the time of the incident. For further details and images, visit [Maritime Executive](https://www.maritime-executive.com/article/two-killed-as-bulker-runs-over-tug-s-towline-in-the-philippines) and [Manila Bulletin](https://mb.com.ph/2025/3/24/at-least-1-dead-as-ph-tugboat-panamanian-flagged-ship-collide-off-sarangani).

In a significant move within the maritime sector, Arista Shipping has successfully completed the sale of a vessel for an impressive $5.9 million to a group of buyers from China. This transaction highlights the ongoing interest and investment in the shipping industry from the Asian market, showcasing the increasing globalization of maritime commerce. With this sale, Arista Shipping continues to streamline its operations while catering to the demands of international buyers.