3 hurt as vessel, motorized banca collide

MANILA, Philippines — Three people were injured when a passenger vessel collided with a motorized banca in the waters off Zamboanga City on Friday night, according to the Philippine Coast Guard.

The PCG said the motorized vessel Sug Adventurer was sailing near Sta. Cruz Island at past 6 p.m. when it hit the banca with three people on board.

The banca reportedly developed engine trouble, causing its operator to loss control of the wheel.

The passengers jumped into the water as the boat started sinking.

They were rescued and transported by crewmembers of the Sug Adventurer to the port of Zamboanga.

Members of the PCG Station Zamboanga, the Philippine Red Cross and port workers assisted the passengers and applied first aid on their injuries.

The PCG said it would recommend to the Maritime Industry Authority or MARINA to suspend the safety certificate of the Sug Adventurer while investigation is being conducted.