Coast Guard vessel BRP Cape Engaño catches fire in Palawan port

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said that the BRP Cape Engaño (MRRV-4411) was hit by a fire early Monday morning while moored at the International Cruise Ship Port in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.

In a statement on Tuesday, March 24, the PCG said that it contained the fire in the vessel. 

The fire was declared out by 6:30 a.m., according to the PCG.

The incident, which occurred in Barangay Bagong Silang, began at approximately 5:29 a.m. when crew members detected thick black smoke emanating from the ship’s bosun’s store. 

Following standard emergency protocols, the commanding officer immediately sounded the fire alarm and ordered a full muster, confirming that all personnel were accounted for and safe.

To mitigate the hazard, the ship’s engineering team promptly secured the onboard power supply. 

The PCG said that firefighting teams were deployed within minutes, working to isolate the flames and prevent the fire from spreading to other critical sections of the multi-role response vessel.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Palawan and the Coast Guard District Palawan provided additional manpower and equipment to assist in the operations.