Roromaster 5 ferry runs aground off Occidental Mindoro

The Ro-Pax ferry Roromaster 5 ran aground on a rocky area approximately 30 metres from the shore of Barangay Udalo, near the Port of Abra de Ilog in Occidental Mindoro, in the early hours of Thursday, September 17.

The vessel was traveling from the Port of Batangas when it experienced a gyrocompass failure, causing it to deviate from its course. Authorities reported that between 114 and 117 people were on board. Rescuers utilized four liferafts and a lifeline to safely evacuate all passengers and crew to the shoreline.

No serious injuries were reported, though one woman was hospitalized after fainting from fear. The Philippine Coast Guard confirmed there were no reported oil spills or water ingress. The vessel's operator, Orange Navigation, has contracted a tug to assist in refloating the ship and towing it to deeper waters. Divers are expected to inspect the hull for damage.