Urgent Alert Issued for Missing Bulk Carrier
The Philippine Coast Guard has raised an urgent alarm following a distress call from the Chinese-owned bulk carrier, Xing Guang 11, which has lost contact while navigating near Eastern Samar. The vessel, registered in Panama, was last reported approximately 54 nautical miles east-northeast of Siluan Island. All vessels in the vicinity have been urged to keep a vigilant lookout and report any sightings to the nearest Coast Guard office.
Details of the Distress Call
The Xing Guang 11 is a dry bulk carrier built in 2008, measuring 150 meters (492 feet) in length and with a deadweight tonnage of 18,000. The ship departed from Nakhodka, Russia, on January 21, en route to Bahudopi in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, a region known for its nickel mining activities. The last Port State inspection, conducted in November in Vietnam, revealed deficiencies related to the operational readiness of its lifesaving appliances, although the vessel was not detained at that time.
As of now, the Philippine Coast Guard has not disclosed the number of crew members aboard or the specific nature of the distress. The urgency of the situation is heightened by the recent sinking of another bulk carrier, Devon Bay, which occurred just a week prior after loading nickel ore. This incident has prompted warnings from insurers about the risks associated with transporting nickel ore, particularly from the Philippines.
Search Efforts and Ongoing Concerns
In light of the recent events, the Coast Guard’s alert emphasizes the need for heightened awareness among vessels operating in the area. They have requested that any ships passing through report their findings immediately. The search for the Xing Guang 11 is ongoing, but no further updates have been provided by the Coast Guard regarding the status of the search efforts.
The maritime community remains on edge as the situation unfolds, particularly given the potential dangers associated with transporting nickel ore. The Coast Guard’s call to action highlights the critical importance of safety measures and operational readiness for vessels navigating these waters. As the search continues, the focus remains on locating the missing vessel and ensuring the safety of its crew.
