A Chinese-flagged dredging vessel, the MV Hong Hai 16, capsized on April 15, 2025, off the coast of Occidental Mindoro in the western Philippines. The incident resulted in the deaths of four crew members, including one Chinese national, and left seven others missing. The vessel was carrying 25 crew members—13 Filipinos and 12 Chinese nationals—when it overturned. Rescue operations led to the recovery of six Filipinos and eight Chinese crew members.
At the time of the incident, the MV Hong Hai 16 was transporting 2,000 liters of lube oil and 30,000 liters of diesel. The Philippine Coast Guard has initiated containment efforts to prevent a potential oil spill. Search-and-rescue operations are ongoing, with divers recovering additional bodies.
This tragedy underscores the risks associated with maritime operations in the region and highlights the importance of stringent safety protocols and emergency preparednes.
