Surigao city: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has responded to a fire aboard passenger ferry MV Maria Felisa in waters off Surigao City in Surigao del Norte, ensuring the safety of over 120 people on board.

According to Philippines News Agency, the vessel was en route from the Port of Benit in San Ricardo, Southern Leyte to Lipata Port in Surigao City, traversing the waters off Surigao Strait, when the crew discovered a fire in the engine room on Sunday afternoon. Initial investigation revealed that the fire originated from elevated temperatures in the lube oil filter, leading to overheating.

The ferry crew contained the fire, but the ship's engine stopped approximately 0.85 nautical miles off Bilaa Point, Barangay Punta Bilar, Surigao City. The PCG immediately rendered assistance, and MV Binibining Liloan, a sister ship of MV Maria Felisa, also provided support.

In addition to deploying floating assets, the PCG ensured the safety and security of the passengers and crew and assisted MV Maria Vanessa, which conducted ship-side towing of the beleaguered MV Maria Felisa. The vessel was towed toward Lipata Port while the passengers and crew were assessed by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office of Surigao City, the Philippine National Police Maritime Group, and the Bureau of Fire Protection.

At approximately 3:58 p.m., the vessels arrived at Lipata Port, where all 92 passengers disembarked safely. Of the 33 crew members on board, three sustained minor injuries such as burns and smoke inhalation during the incident. The injured included a 25-year-old oiler from Arayat, Pampanga, a 22-year-old apprentice from San Simon, Pampanga, and a 22-year-old apprentice from Bustos, Bulacan.

The PCG has coordinated with the Maritime Industry Authority for the appropriate investigation and disposition of the vessel.