Cargo Vessel Capsizes at Naga, Cebu Pier, Leaving One Dead and Crew Member Rescued
A tragic maritime incident unfolded late Wednesday night, March 11, 2026, when a cargo vessel capsized at the pier area of Apo Cement Corporation in the City of Naga, Cebu. The accident claimed the life of one factory worker and led to the dramatic rescue of a crew member who was trapped inside the ship.
Details of the Capsizing and Immediate Response
According to City Administrator Arthur Villamor, the Naga City Government received an initial report around 10 p.m. regarding an incident involving the cargo ship, believed to be the M/V Maria Theresa 1. The vessel reportedly listed and eventually capsized after a mooring line anchored to the port snapped violently.
The snapped cable struck a factory worker identified as Baricog, a resident of Inoburan. Despite being rushed to a hospital in southern Cebu, the victim was later declared dead, marking a somber start to the emergency response.
Responders from the Naga City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office swiftly arrived at the scene. Villamor noted that personnel from Apo Cement also provided rapid assistance, collaborating in the rescue operations to address the unfolding crisis.
Rescue Operation and Investigation
Joel Y. Baring, substation commander of the Philippine Coast Guard in the City of Naga, reported that they were informed about the capsizing around 10:30 p.m. and immediately deployed personnel to the site. Upon arrival, authorities discovered that the vessel had already completely overturned.
During their initial assessment, rescuers located one crew member trapped inside the ship after hearing sounds indicating signs of life. A composite rescue team from the Coast Guard and Apo Cement employees decided to puncture a hole in the hull to gain access. This bold move proved successful, with the crew member being rescued at 1:18 a.m. and confirmed to be safe.
Baring later confirmed that the casualty occurred when the vessel's mooring line tightened and suddenly snapped, striking the victim with fatal force. However, authorities emphasized that the exact cause of the incident remains officially undetermined. Initial speculation suggests the vessel may have been loading cement cargo at the time, potentially causing an imbalance, but officials stress this is unconfirmed.
Ongoing Developments and Environmental Concerns
As of Thursday afternoon, March 12, Apo Cement had not released an official statement regarding the incident. Meanwhile, the Coast Guard is prioritizing efforts to prevent possible environmental damage following the capsizing.
A 100-meter spill boom has been installed around the area to contain any potential fuel or oil leakage from the ship. Authorities continue to monitor the site closely and are preparing for possible salvage operations to address the aftermath of this maritime disaster.
