PCG: Still no signs of missing seamen

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines – No signs have been reported so far of any survivors among the 10 missing Chinese seafarers from a Panamanian-flagged cargo vessel which sank off northern Batanes last week.

Capt. George Ursabia, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Northern Luzon district commander, said they would likely call off their weeklong search and rescue operations today if their efforts to find the missing seafarers remain fruitless.

The missing seamen were among the 24 Chinese crewmen of MV Hongwei, which capsized off Itbayat, Batanes last Dec. 3. The other crewmembers were rescued.