MANILA – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has rescued a foreign-flagged tugboat with 10 Chinese crew members after the vessel suffered engine failure while transiting off Palawan waters.

The tugboat, M/Tug Virgo, was reported “dead in the water” some 43 nautical miles off Coron on September 28, according to TORO Marine’s commercial supervisor. Its crew later updated their position near Barangay Nangalao, Linapacan, Palawan.

The PCG deployed BRP Malapascua (MRRV-4403), which located the vessel the following day at around 1:45 p.m. Coast Guard personnel boarded the tugboat, checked documents, and confirmed through medical inspection that all 10 Chinese crew members were safe and in good condition.

The vessel’s master said they had departed Malaysia and were en route to China when the engine failure occurred. Their company has arranged a replacement starter motor and a rescue tug for repairs.

To ensure safety, BRP Malapascua began towing operations at 4:15 p.m. and escorted the tugboat to San Fernando, El Nido, Palawan.

The PCG said the successful operation reflects its commitment to safeguard lives and vessels within Philippine waters, whether foreign or domestic.